This week’s local government elections will see voters cast their ballots for the candidates they want to represent their wards and lead their municipalities and districts.

As part of the Krugersdorp News’ commitment to voter education, the publication invited candidates from all political parties to share their views via its social media platforms.

The Freedom Front Plus responded to the invitation, with its candidates highlighting the need for drastic improvements in service delivery.

The News sent each candidate who responded a set of questions to answer. Here are some of their responses:

René de Koker-Lamprecht – Ward 29 and 34:

Q: What specific plans do you have to improve community safety and reduce crime in the ward?
A: As a member of the executive committee of the CPF Sector 4, I understand the value of co-operation between residents, the police, the CPF and neighbourhood watches. I would support crime-prevention awareness, responsible reporting and stronger communication between these groups. I would also raise concerns about streetlights, unsafe public spaces and other municipal infrastructure issues with the relevant departments.

Q: What is your plan to address infrastructure problems such as potholes, sewage spills, streetlights and illegal dumping?
A: I would help residents report these problems, record recurring complaints and follow up with the responsible municipal departments. Urgent health and safety risks should be escalated promptly. Where problems persist, I would report them through the appropriate council channels and seek clear feedback on planned action and progress.

Q: If elected, how will residents be able to hold you accountable and measure your progress over the next five years?
A: I would work with residents to identify ward priorities and establish realistic goals that can be monitored over time. I will set up a Performance Appraisal Form where performance can be measured. I would provide regular feedback regarding complaints, matters escalated, municipal responses and progress on agreed priorities. Although I cannot independently control municipal budgets, staff or service operations, I can represent residents, ask questions through the appropriate structures, follow up on outstanding matters and report honestly on progress and obstacles.

Louis van Zyl – Ward 22:

Q: What are the three biggest challenges currently facing your ward, and how will you address them?
A: The three biggest challenges facing Ward 22 are poor service delivery, rising crime, and deteriorating infrastructure. My priority will be to ensure that the municipality delivers essential services efficiently, work closely with law enforcement agencies and Community Policing Forums to improve safety, and actively pursue the repair and maintenance of roads, stormwater systems, parks, and public facilities. Residents deserve a ward that is clean, safe, and well managed.

Q: How will you ensure that residents are kept informed and involved in decisions affecting the community?
A: Communication must be open, transparent, and consistent. I will host regular public meetings, maintain active WhatsApp and social media groups, distribute newsletters, and provide monthly progress reports. Residents will always know which issues are being addressed and will have meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions affecting the ward.

Q: How will you ensure municipal funds allocated to the ward are spent transparently and effectively?
A: Rates and levies should be ring-fenced and strategically allocated. A substantial portion of the revenue collected from rates and levies should be reinvested into the wards where it originates. While I fully support the principle of providing basic services to all residents, including low-income households, it is essential that ratepaying residents also receive fair value through visible improvements and quality service delivery in their communities.

Danie Toerien – Ward 26:

Q: What will you do to support local businesses, informal traders and job creation in the ward?
A: A prerequisite for local economic development is public confidence in municipal management and council. Such confidence creates certainty for private sector investment and business expansion. Confidence is built through transparent and accountable governance, responsible spending of public funds, the creation of a safe environment, and the protection and promotion of community interests.

Q: What programmes or initiatives would you introduce for young people, women and vulnerable residents in the community?
A: To promote economic growth, municipalities should create a favourable environment for investment through infrastructure development, proper maintenance, and fair rates and taxes. Various programmes exist to support women, young people, and vulnerable residents through education, skills development, leadership training, and social protection initiatives. The FF Plus will work to ensure that these programmes are accessible to all members of the community.

Q: How will you improve basic service delivery such as water, electricity, refuse removal and road maintenance?
A: The Mogale City Municipality is currently unable to provide adequate services across its entire service area. There is a shortage of dedicated and competent municipal officials. In addition, there is a lack of skilled tradespeople, such as electricians, who play a vital role in ensuring effective service delivery.

Amy Steyn – Ward 17:

Q: How will you improve basic service delivery such as water, electricity, refuse removal and road maintenance?
A: I will use consistent monitoring, formal escalation and public accountability to push for better service delivery. I cannot personally operate municipal infrastructure or guarantee that every repair will happen immediately. I can, however, insist on answers, maintain pressure on the responsible departments and report progress honestly.

Q: How will you ensure that residents are kept informed and involved in decisions affecting the community?
A: Communication and accessibility will be central to my role as Ward 17 councillor. I will continue using social media and community communication platforms to share verified service-delivery updates, municipal notices, reported problems and feedback received from the relevant departments, as I did in the past five years. Residents will be encouraged to report issues with the location, date, photographs where possible and reference numbers. I will follow up on outstanding matters and communicate when there is no response or when the municipality has not yet provided a confirmed solution.

Q: What programmes or initiatives would you introduce for young people, women and vulnerable residents in the community?
A: I will advocate for practical, accessible initiatives that respond to the needs of different groups within Ward 17. Young people: Promote access to career guidance, skills-development opportunities, job-readiness programmes and entrepreneurship support. Women: Support initiatives that improve access to skills-development opportunities, business opportunities, community support networks and information about services for women experiencing violence or abuse. Older persons and people with disabilities: Advocate for accessible municipal facilities, fair access to services, appropriate community support and better communication about available assistance. Vulnerable households: Help residents navigate municipal reporting channels and identify relevant support programmes, while referring cases to the appropriate organisations and authorities. I will seek partnerships with community organisations, local businesses, NGOs and relevant government departments to make initiatives practical and sustainable.

Lourens Gouws – Ward 18:

Q: What specific plans do you have to improve community safety and reduce crime in the ward?
A: I will work closely with the police, the Community Policing Forum, and the security companies operating within our area. Through strong partnerships, improved communication, and co-ordinated action, we can create a safer environment for all residents.

Q: How will you improve conditions in informal settlements and underserved areas within the ward?
A: Everyone deserves access to basic service delivery. A community that looks after its most vulnerable residents is a community that thrives. As mentioned previously, improved economic growth and business development will create employment opportunities and contribute to uplifting underserved communities within the ward.

Q: If elected, how will residents be able to hold you accountable and measure your progress over the next five years?
A: The FF Plus requires its councillors to follow a strict principle: Community first. As a councillor, I will hold regular ward meetings to keep residents informed and to report on progress made in addressing community concerns and improving service delivery. My door will always be open. I believe that praise and criticism should be treated with equal importance, as both contribute to accountability and improvement. If I fail to fulfil my responsibilities, residents will have access to clear channels through which they can raise concerns, lodge complaints, and hold me accountable. I will ensure that these channels are communicated openly and remain easily accessible to all residents.

Tjaart Steenkamp – Ward 37

Steenkamp is focusing on the following core principles:

1. Address decay early: Well-maintained public spaces, proper road markings, and legible street signs foster community pride and a responsible environment. I support the “Broken Windows” approach: address signs of decay before the situation worsens.
2. Safety through collaboration: I support collaboration between the Community Policing Forum (CPF), the police, traffic officials, neighbourhood watches, and residents to promote safer communities.
3. Self-determination and responsibility
Residents should play a meaningful role in managing and caring for their own environment, while the municipality remains accountable for service delivery.
4. Law and order, including land use: Zoning regulations must be applied consistently and fairly. Properties must be used in accordance with their approved land-use designation.

“My passion for real estate has taught me that an area’s condition, safety, and appearance significantly influence property values. My goal is simple: Better service delivery, safer communities, well-maintained neighbourhoods, and accountable governance in Mogale City,” he said.

Adrian Maytom – Ward 38

Q: If elected, how will residents be able to hold you accountable and measure your progress over the next five years?
A: If elected, I want residents to judge me by my actions, accessibility, and the progress I help achieve, rather than simply by my promises. I will encourage residents to report problems, ask questions, and hold me accountable for following up on their concerns. I will provide regular community updates on reported faults, outstanding issues, municipal responses, and progress on important local priorities, while respecting residents’ privacy.

Q: What programmes or initiatives would you introduce for young people, women, and vulnerable residents in the community?
A: I would advocate for practical initiatives that help people become safer, more independent, and better equipped to improve their circumstances. For young people, I would promote access to skills development, career guidance, sporting activities, mentorship programmes, and employment opportunities. For women, I would support initiatives that encourage entrepreneurship, skills training, economic empowerment, and access to appropriate support services. For elderly residents, people with disabilities, and vulnerable families, I would work to improve access to relevant municipal services, community support networks, and existing social assistance programmes. I would seek partnerships with local businesses, non-profit organisations, community groups, and government departments to identify available resources and address service gaps. These initiatives should be guided by the actual needs of residents and deliver measurable benefits to the community.

Q: How will you ensure municipal funds allocated to the ward are spent transparently and effectively?
A: Rates and levies should be ring-fenced and strategically allocated wherever possible. This means that a substantial portion of revenue collected from rates and levies should be reinvested into the ward where it was generated. At the same time, the principle of basic services for all residents, including access to essential services for low-income households, remains important and must be upheld. Municipal revenue should be managed transparently and responsibly, ensuring that resources are used effectively while also supporting residents and communities with the greatest needs. I will advocate for accountability, transparent reporting, and responsible spending so that residents can see how municipal resources are being used and what outcomes are being achieved.

Braam Reed – Ward 28

Q: How will you improve basic service delivery such as water, electricity, refuse removal and road maintenance?
A: Improving service delivery requires clear and consistent communication between residents, their elected Ward Councillor, the relevant PR Councillor, and Mogale City Local Municipality. Continuous engagement and constructive pressure must be applied to ensure that critical service delivery issues are addressed promptly. Accountability is essential. Where service delivery failures occur, responsible officials must be held accountable for resolving them. Honest and transparent communication with residents is equally important. Even when solutions are delayed, or outcomes are not immediately favourable, residents deserve accurate information and regular updates on progress.

Q: How will you ensure that residents are kept informed and involved in decisions affecting the community?
A: I will maintain regular engagement with residents through meetings, public discussions, and accessible communication channels. I will also request community gatherings at central venues to discuss challenges, priorities, and practical action plans that can be implemented effectively. Every member of the community should have an opportunity to be heard, ensuring that decisions reflect the needs and interests of the ward as a whole. Through ongoing collaboration, transparency, and inclusivity, we can gradually restore pride, order, and confidence within our community.

Q: What will you do to support local businesses, informal traders and job creation in the ward?
A: Economic growth and job creation are vital for the long-term prosperity of Ward 28. Mogale City Local Municipality must create a business-friendly environment that encourages investment and economic activity. This includes reviewing policies relating to permits, consent-use applications, and municipal tariffs to ensure that they support business development rather than hinder it. As businesses grow, employment opportunities increase, which in turn improves the quality of life for residents and strengthens the local economy.

Crystal Reid – Ward 39

Q: What will you do to support local businesses, informal traders and job creation in the ward?
A: I will address this through a five-point approach: Assist businesses in navigating municipal processes and obtaining the necessary permits and approvals. Advocate for fair and transparent access to municipal procurement opportunities. Support local markets and create opportunities for informal traders. Encourage local businesses to advertise employment opportunities through community networks. Facilitate connections between available workers and employers seeking specific skills.

Q: How will you improve conditions in informal settlements and unreserved areas within your ward?
A: The honest answer is that conditions can and must improve. This is an important issue that requires careful consideration, sensitivity and respect. My approach will focus on the following five priorities: Identify and assess the specific service delivery gaps affecting these settlements and unreserved areas. Advocate for access to safe drinking water, basic sanitation, refuse removal and emergency services. Always operate within the framework of the law and comply with court rulings, while pursuing practical and lawful upgrading plans with the relevant authorities and MCLM. Engage directly with residents to better understand their needs, rather than making assumptions or decisions on their behalf. Ensure that all residents of Ward 39 are treated with dignity, fairness and respect.

Q: How will you ensure municipal funds allocated to the ward are spent transparently and effectively?
A: Rates and levies should be ring-fenced and strategically allocated. A substantial portion of the revenue collected within an area should be reinvested into that area, while also recognising the municipality’s responsibility to provide services to low-income households and vulnerable communities. Municipal revenue should be managed in a fair and balanced manner that serves the needs of all residents. However, this should not result in rate-paying residents receiving little or no value for the taxes they contribute. Transparency, accountability and measurable outcomes must guide all municipal spending decisions.

Allen Ridley – Ward 31

Q: What is your plan to address infrastructure problems such as potholes, sewage spills, streetlights, and illegal dumping?
A: I will maintain a prioritised list of reported infrastructure issues, submit and track service requests, escalate unresolved matters, and provide residents with regular progress updates. I will also advocate for preventative maintenance, reliable street lighting, improved waste management, and decisive action against illegal dumping.

Q: If elected, how will residents be able to hold you accountable and measure your progress over the next five years?
A: I will commit to regular ward meetings, accessible communication channels, and periodic public progress reports. Residents will be able to track reported issues, follow-up actions, outstanding matters, and completed projects. I believe accountability means being accessible, reporting honestly, and continuing to pursue solutions, even when progress is challenging.

Q: What programmes or initiatives would you introduce for young people, women, and vulnerable residents in the community?
A: I will promote youth skills development, employment opportunities, entrepreneurship support, and partnerships with local businesses. I will encourage initiatives that support women-owned businesses and work with community organisations to identify and assist elderly residents, people with disabilities, and vulnerable households.

Telecia Kieger – Ward 9

Q: How will you improve basic service delivery such as water, electricity, refuse removal, and road maintenance?
A: I will hold the municipality and its administration accountable by ensuring that service delivery issues raised by residents are properly reported, tabled in council where appropriate, and consistently followed up on until they are resolved. A councillor should not simply report a problem and walk away. I believe in actively following up, obtaining feedback, and communicating that feedback to the community.

Q: What specific plans do you have to improve community safety and reduce crime in the ward?
A: Many community members already make use of neighbourhood WhatsApp groups and work closely with Community Policing Forum (CPF) members to address safety concerns. I will strengthen this cooperation and advocate for increased involvement from the South African Police Service (SAPS), particularly through improved police visibility in identified problem areas. I will also engage directly with residents to identify areas where they feel unsafe, understand their concerns, and work with the relevant stakeholders to address these issues. Community safety requires cooperation between residents, the CPF, SAPS, and the municipality. No single person or organisation can solve the problem alone.

Q: How will you ensure that residents are kept informed and involved in decisions affecting the community?
A: Communication will be a priority. I will utilise WhatsApp communication channels and social media platforms, such as Facebook, to keep residents informed about matters affecting the ward and to provide regular updates on issues that have been raised. I am also committed to hosting regular community meetings where residents can raise concerns, receive updates, and engage directly with their councillor. I believe a councillor must be visible, accessible, and actively involved in the community. Residents should not have a “ghost councillor” who only appears during election campaigns.

Richard Berry – Ward 30

Q: How will you improve conditions in informal settlements and underserved areas within the ward?
A: Improving living conditions starts with the provision of basic services such as water, electricity, and refuse removal. It is also important that both young people and adults feel connected to and included in the broader community. The development of sports facilities and recreational centres would contribute significantly to social upliftment and community cohesion.

Q: What is your plan to address infrastructure problems such as potholes, sewage spills, streetlights and illegal dumping?
A: There is currently very limited infrastructure in Tarlton. Municipal water and sewerage services need to be expanded to serve most areas. In addition, a comprehensive maintenance plan must be implemented to ensure existing infrastructure is properly maintained. Accountability and effective oversight are essential to ensure infrastructure projects are completed and maintained to the required standard.

Q: How will you ensure municipal funds allocated to the ward are spent transparently and effectively?
A: Rates and levies should be ring-fenced and strategically allocated. This means that a substantial portion of the revenue collected from a ward should be reinvested into that ward to improve services and infrastructure. At the same time, the principle of providing basic services to all residents, including low-income households, must be upheld and supported.

Byron Krieger – Ward 3

Q: If elected, how will residents be able to hold you accountable and measure your progress over the next five years?
A: Regular surveys will be conducted to assess my performance, and clear channels will be established for constituents to raise concerns, provide feedback, and report issues relating to my performance as a councillor. All feedback and concerns will be taken seriously and addressed responsibly. I am committed to being an accessible, accountable, and visible elected representative who remains actively engaged with the community. I will be available to listen to residents’ concerns, communicate openly, and work diligently to address their needs. I will not be an absent representative. Instead, I will remain present, involved, and open to public scrutiny, ensuring accountability and measurable progress throughout my

Q: 9. What programmes or initiatives would you introduce for young people, women and vulnerable residents in the community?
A: I will partner with local businesses to create paid micro-internship opportunities that provide young people with practical work experience, mentorship, and valuable professional networks. In addition, I will introduce incentive and recognition programmes for businesses that actively contribute to skills development, youth empowerment, women’s economic participation, and community upliftment. Overall Objective: To build sustainable partnerships between local businesses and the community that create employment opportunities, develop young talent, promote sports and recreation, and encourage long-term investment in local development.

Q: How will you ensure municipal funds allocated to the ward are spent transparently and effectively?
A: I will exercise active oversight to ensure that municipal funds allocated to the ward are spent responsibly, transparently, and in accordance with approved budgets and priorities. I am committed to promoting public accountability through regular progress reports and transparent communication with residents regarding how funds are allocated and utilised. This will encourage meaningful community participation, strengthen public oversight, and help ensure that resources are used effectively to benefit the ward.

Gary du Plooy – Ward 23

Q: What specific plans do you have to improve community safety and reduce crime in the ward?
A: Build stronger working relationships with SAPS and the Community Policing Forum (CPF). Encourage neighbourhood safety initiatives and greater community participation. Facilitate regular safety meetings between key stakeholders. Support efforts to improve safety patrols and address infrastructure issues that contribute to criminal activity. Create accessible channels through which residents can raise safety concerns and receive updates. The goal is to strengthen partnerships and improve communication between all role players involved in keeping Ward 23 safe.

Q: How will you ensure that residents are kept informed and involved in decisions affecting the community?
A: Communication is one of the most important responsibilities of a ward councillor. I will hold regular community meetings. Provide updates through WhatsApp groups, social media platforms, and other communication channels. Share information on municipal projects and service delivery matters. Encourage residents to participate in ward meetings and public consultation processes. Ensure that residents’ feedback is communicated to the municipality and that municipal responses are communicated back to residents. Residents deserve to know what is happening in their ward and should have meaningful opportunities to contribute to decisions that affect them.

Q: What are the three biggest challenges currently facing your ward, and how will you address them?
A: Service delivery challenges, including water interruptions, electricity outages, potholes, and infrastructure maintenance. Crime and community safety, particularly theft, vandalism, and other criminal activities affecting residents and businesses. Lack of communication and accountability between residents and municipal structures. My role will be to serve as a strong voice for residents by engaging regularly with Mogale City Local Municipality departments, SAPS, the Community Policing Forum (CPF), businesses, and community organisations. I will ensure that issues are reported, tracked, and followed up on, while also providing residents with regular updates on progress and challenges.

Theuns Schoeman – Ward 16 and 4

Q: How will you improve conditions in informal settlements and underserved areas within the ward?
A: The principle of providing basic services to all residents, including low-income households, is fundamental and must be upheld. I will advocate for efficient and reliable water supply, regular refuse removal, and improved service delivery to informal settlements and underserved communities.

Q: What is your plan to address infrastructure problems such as potholes, sewage spills, streetlights and illegal dumping?
A: Sustainable infrastructure is critical for community development and service delivery. Therefore, the equitable share allocated to the municipality should be utilised for its intended purpose, namely providing basic services and supporting vulnerable communities. Fiscal discipline, responsible budgeting and targeted expenditure will ensure that services are delivered effectively, communities are uplifted, and public funds are used where they are most needed.

Q: If elected, how will residents be able to hold you accountable and measure your progress over the next five years?
A: Accountability is of the utmost importance. The needs of poor and vulnerable communities must be recognised and prioritised. At the same time, a culture of responsible payment of municipal rates and taxes should be encouraged to support sustainable service delivery. I will maintain regular communication with residents through community meetings and other engagement platforms, provide feedback on progress made, and ensure that the voices of the community are heard and represented.

Gideon Martins – Ward 27

Q: 9. What programmes or initiatives would you introduce for young people, women, and vulnerable residents in the community?
A: I believe a strong community creates opportunities for its people and does not abandon those who are struggling. My approach would be to engage with existing organisations, identify gaps in available support, and advocate for initiatives that respond to the needs of our residents. I would seek to build partnerships rather than establish programmes without considering existing services, available funding, and community needs. As a Christian, I believe every person deserves dignity, compassion, and the opportunity to live a meaningful life. Jesus taught us to love our neighbours as ourselves. For me, this means translating faith into practical service by listening to people, treating them with respect, and working to improve their circumstances wherever possible.

Q: What specific plans do you have to improve community safety and reduce crime in the ward?
A: Community safety requires cooperation, prevention, and accountability. If elected, I will engage with the South African Police Service, Community Policing Forums, neighbourhood watches, local churches, schools, and other relevant organisations to strengthen communication and collaboration. I will advocate for the identification of crime hotspots, improved street lighting in vulnerable areas, the reporting of abandoned or unsafe spaces, and co-ordinated responses to safety concerns. I also believe we must address the circumstances that leave young people vulnerable to crime, including unemployment, substance abuse, and a lack of constructive opportunities. Where possible, I will support initiatives that connect young people with mentorship programmes, sports activities, skills development opportunities, and positive community engagements. As a Christian, I believe every human life has dignity and value. Our responsibility is to protect our families, support those at risk, and work towards a community where people can live without fear. While I cannot promise to eliminate crime single-handedly, I can promise to take residents’ concerns seriously, encourage cooperation, and consistently advocate for practical measures that improve safety.

Q: What are the three biggest challenges currently facing your ward, and how will you address them?
A: I believe the three most pressing challenges requiring urgent attention in our community are poor service delivery, unemployment and limited economic opportunities, and community safety. Firstly, residents deserve reliable basic services, including water, electricity, sanitation, refuse removal, and well-maintained roads. I will work closely with the relevant municipal departments to identify outstanding issues, establish priorities, and ensure that residents receive regular feedback on progress. Secondly, unemployment, particularly among young people, places enormous pressure on families. I will advocate for skills development programmes, support for small businesses and informal traders, and improved access to available employment opportunities. Thirdly, crime and substance abuse negatively affect the safety and well-being of our families. I will encourage cooperation between residents, the South African Police Service, community policing structures, churches, and other community organisations. As a Christian, I believe leadership is a calling to serve others with integrity, wisdom, and compassion. Proverbs 11:3 teaches us that ‘the integrity of the upright guides them’. I want my leadership to be guided by honesty, accountability, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of the people I serve.