Community apathy has allowed municipal corruption and declining service delivery to flourish over the past three decades, according to Christo Bester, Executive Manager of Business Networks at Sakeliga.

Addressing members of the Endumeni Chamber of Business last week, Bester said residents and businesses need to become more involved in municipal affairs if they want to reverse local government failures.

He explained that Sakeliga focuses on legal action and structured community solutions to address municipal dysfunction. Rather than encouraging rates boycotts, the organisation assists residents in formally disputing incorrect municipal accounts and service delivery failures.

“Court rulings have established protections that allow consumers to withhold legitimately disputed amounts without facing arbitrary service disconnections,” he said.

Bester cited Lichtenburg as an example where legal intervention helped ensure payments intended for service providers, such as Eskom, reached their destination.

He also highlighted the success of community service associations in towns such as Frankfort in the Free State, where residents have taken a leading role in maintaining infrastructure and essential services.

Bester urged residents to start by scrutinising their monthly municipal accounts and ensuring their properties are correctly zoned.

“Municipalities are compelled to provide consumers with accurate accounts. If they fail to do so, there are proper channels to address it,” he said.

He added that legislation such as the Promotion of Access to Information Act could help residents obtain information from municipalities.

Active citizens can help improve local government

“We have taken action in 58 municipalities with success. It’s all about being willing and active. Without that, towns will continue to decline.”

Despite his criticism of local government, Bester said Endumeni was performing better than many municipalities he had encountered.

“I would give Endumeni six out of 10. Many of you may laugh, but I have seen far worse,” he said.

He reminded residents that while councillors can table motions of no confidence, voters ultimately hold the power to bring about change.

“Your vote on November 4 is your way of changing your town.”

Endumeni Chamber of Business president Alan Schonken thanked Bester for his visit and encouraged members to remain informed and involved in local affairs.

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