Tony Kruger of Ballito writes:

I wholeheartedly agree with the views and sentiments expressed by Ismael Asmal (Courier, September 24).

The ‘sinister-looking characters’ on local election billboards caused me a wry smile!

What Mr Asmal says should be taken very, very seriously by voters in the coming local elections.

Too many people elected to office’s principal objectives are to enjoy the benefits of very decent salary packages and to sit back in defensive and excuse-making mode.

Local elections are actually the one level of government where we ordinary citizens do have a measure of power and influence over the way our towns and districts are managed.

The elected office bearers are nearer at hand and can be held more directly accountable for their actions or lack thereof.

I agree with Mr Asmal’s suggestion to have monthly inspections of how councillors are performing their duties, and checking whether they are living up to their election promises.

I would like to add that these inspections be recorded and publicised for public scrutiny.

The council must deal with these inspection results promptly, and these must be provided/heard in an open public forum.

In fact, I would suggest that the right should be given to the public to request a special meeting of the Council if there is inadequate holding of councillors to account.

Failure without good explanation by councillors to perform should as a first step be a salary cut (as he proposes), and even further – if after instruction and opportunity to improve, promises are still not met, early removal from office must then follow.

Lastly, I strongly urge residents to exercise their vote in the local elections, as it is the opportunity for us to do something about service delivery – especially if we then insist on greater accountability.