More than 1 000 residents descended on Shakaskraal last night to see mayoral candidates Doeshiee Govender and Privi Makhan go head-to-head on their plans for job creation, service delivery and infrastructure.

The debate between the two KwaDukuza municipality (KDM) leadership hopefuls – Govender for the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK) and Makhan for the Democratic Alliance (DA) – was held at a packed Rosehill Community Hall at around 6.30pm.

It was organised after Makhan challenged Govender to debate municipal policy in a public forum.

The event became heated when the candidates were asked how they would attract investment and create employment.

Makhan warned against making unrealistic employment promises, particularly to unemployed young people.

“Jobs are a very, very emotional issue for the youth and we must never play with their hopes and aspirations,” she said.

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She questioned a proposal from Govender of 500 further jobs at the municipality, pointing out that KDM’s organogram included 1 037 total employees.

“So whoever is promising an additional 500 jobs in KwaDukuza, I don’t know how they are going to do it,” she said.

Makhan argued that sustainable job creation required attracting private investment rather than relying on municipal employment. She said the focus should be on improving infrastructure, reducing administrative red tape and strengthening municipal planning to speed up major development projects.

Govender challenged her interpretation of his employment promise, saying he was not promising 500 additional municipal positions. Govender argued that employment opportunities should go to KwaDukuza residents rather than people from outside the area, claiming that 300 people from Durban and elsewhere were benefitting from local jobs.

When the Courier asked Govender for clarity on the figures, he said the 300 people was an estimate and that he was referring to jobs in both the private sector and government.

“Remove the 300 people who are coming from Durban and other areas and replace them with the local people. Employment starts here,” said Govender.

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Both candidates outlined their plans for KDM, which Makhan described as a municipality struggling with service delivery and corruption.

“When somewhere that you call home no longer works, you do not have the luxury of looking away,” she said.

Govender emphasised leadership and unity, saying his approach was to serve residents regardless of race or political affiliation.

Asked what they would prioritise during their first 100 days, Govender promised visible improvements, including litter removal, grass cutting, streetlight repairs and fixing potholes.

“I can assure you, in the first 100 days, I will make magic in KwaDukuza,” he said.

Makhan argued that leadership should be demonstrated throughout a mayor’s term, not only during the first 100 days. She promised greater transparency and accountability.