The Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) at JB Marks Local Municipality has raised serious concerns over what they believe to be a deepening governance crisis, marked by persistent non-compliance, poor coordination and a breakdown in accountability within the municipal administration.

In a media statement issued on April 15, MPAC Chairperson Cllr Rufane Makousa outlined a series of disruptions that have, according to the committee, repeatedly hindered its ability to carry out its oversight mandate on behalf of council and the community.

Oversight process undermined

MPAC, tasked with overseeing the municipality’s Annual Report in terms of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), says it has encountered ongoing and unacceptable obstacles.

A key public participation meeting on the 2024/2025 Annual Report, initially scheduled for March 12 2026 as required by Section 129 of the MFMA, had to be postponed to March 19. According to Makousa, the delay was attributed to the administration’s failure to provide basic support, including funding for community notices, transport arrangements and essential equipment such as sound systems.

The committee warned that proceeding without proper public awareness would have compromised the integrity of the consultation process.

Clashing schedules raise red flags

Further concern was raised over what MPAC described as a “recurring pattern” of interference with its programme.

Oversight sessions planned for March 17 and 18, had to be postponed after the administration scheduled a Special Mayoral Committee meeting and a Heads of Department (HOD) meeting on the same dates, both directly clashing with MPAC’s approved agenda.

According to Makousa, the HOD meeting, chaired by Municipal Manager Kgomotso Kumbe, included discussions on the audit action plan, strategic planning for 2025/2026, the draft Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and budget processes for 2026/2027, as well as a presentation on recycling initiatives.

Makousa adds that such overlaps undermine the authority of council structures and point to poor internal coordination.

April meetings descend into disarray

The situation deteriorated further during rescheduled engagements on April 14 and 15.

On April 14, no secretariat was present to formally record proceedings, an essential requirement for any council committee meeting.

“The Office of the Executive Mayor, which was scheduled to appear first before MPAC, failed to attend and did so without submitting an apology or any form of communication,” added Makousa in the press release.

MPAC described this as unacceptable conduct that erodes the integrity of governance processes.

Risk of legislative non-compliance

The committee has warned that these ongoing disruptions could have serious consequences for the municipality’s ability to meet legislative deadlines, particularly the adoption of an Oversight Report within the timeframe prescribed by Section 129 of the MFMA.

In terms of Sections 60 and 62 of the MFMA, the Municipal Manager, as Accounting Officer, holds ultimate responsibility for ensuring effective financial management systems and compliance with legislation.

MPAC believes the current challenges point to a broader breakdown in administrative discipline and accountability at senior level.

Consequence management on the table

In response, the committee has resolved to escalate the matter. A formal report detailing the alleged non-compliance will be submitted to council, along with recommendations for consequence management against officials found responsible.

The matter will also be referred to relevant provincial government stakeholders.

MPAC stressed that the issues at hand not only threaten good governance and financial accountability, but also risks eroding public trust.

Herald seeks answers

The Potchefstroom Herald submitted a request for comment to the JB Marks Local Municipality on Wednesday, April 15 after the MPAC meeting. Additional time was also granted to allow the Municipal Manager an opportunity to provide input.

However, by 10:00 on Friday, April 17, no feedback had been received. Once the municipality replies, the Potchefstroom Herald will provide an update.

Call for urgent intervention

Despite the challenges, MPAC says it remains committed to executing its mandate impartially. The committee has called on the municipal administration to urgently restore compliance, respect council processes and uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in the interest of the community.

Here is the full video of the media briefing and discussions that took place on April 15: