KwaDukuza Ward 22 councillor Privi Makhan writes:

While being a local government councillor is a calling and a great honour, it can also be a misunderstood role.

Our phones buzz with messages from residents every day without fail. Some are urgent service delivery issues, but others fall well outside of what councillors are empowered to do.
Every now and then, we need to be reminded of what the role of a councillor is.

Councillors are elected to represent the interests of their community in council. We bring residents’ concerns, needs and ideas into the council chamber. We also monitor and oversee the work of the municipal administration (officials) and help set the long-term development direction of the municipality. In holding the municipality accountable, we are the bridge between the people and local government.

What we cannot do however, is act as municipal officials or law enforcement. Councillors don’t drive the trucks or switch on the streetlights; we don’t arrest criminals and most importantly, we are not mashonisas (money lenders). So no, we can’t hand out airtime or taxi fare at midnight.

This is not to say we don’t care. We care deeply. But communities must know what falls within our remit, and what does not. By setting realistic expectations, we can work better together to ensure real service delivery and accountability.

Of course, there is always a lighter side to the job. Some of the requests councillors receive could be great content for the Trevor Noahs of this world. Every councillor will recall the strangest requests they have received during their time in the seat.

And to our residents, remember your councillors are working under extenuating circumstances. Be sure to give your councillor a fist bump or a hug if you bump into them today.

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