Meet your Ward 126 ANC candidate councillor

Effective governance is essential to the proper functioning of the local sphere of government and describes the processes through which municipalities set priorities, take decisions, strengthen accountability and communicate with the community.

Prior to the upcoming local elections, the Northsider sent some questions to Ward 126 ANC candidate councillor, Norma Mbatha to reflect on the future of local governance in Randpark Ridge, Weltevreden Park and Allen’s Nek.

• What will you do differently than the previous councillor?

I’ve already been on the ground with my community, attending to issues pertaining to service delivery and matters that can be addressed before the LGE.

If granted the privilege by the community, I will continue being a direct contact that is accessible to all members of the community as and when required, and as per the pledge we have already taken and committed to within my party, which is to be of service 24/7 to my community.

• Outside of your council duties, how are you involved in the community?

I have two NGOs that have been directly involved with the community, also on a nationwide scale.

We are the people’s voice on matters such as housing challenges, employment, entrepreneurship, food aid and addressing challenges of service delivery.

• What past experiences make you uniquely qualified for this role?

My passion to win each and every matter that comes to my attention no matter how challenging.

Not being biased to the friendships I have with those in authority but my focus on putting people first before our personal friendships and party interests.

• What is your vision for your ward?

Building a better Ward 126 together, that responds to the daily lived realities of our residents, and an epicentre of service delivery.

• How do you feel this vision can be achieved?

By having a systematic weekly approach to service delivery within my ward, have open communication with respective administrators that represent the whole community on matters at hand, and those that have historically not been attended to.

• How does your party mirror your personal beliefs?

I’m driven by my party’s slogan, ‘Building BETTER Communities Together’, and as a party in power that will continue being in power even after our LGE, I’m assured to deliver on all promises I make to my community.

The vision I have highlighted for the ward is greatly aligned to the values of the glorious movement, values of accountability and a people-centred government, in building a prosperous society.

• In 50 words or less, tell the residents of your ward why they should vote for you.

I will not necessarily say my fellow residents should vote for me, but I would encourage them to vote for a candidate that is most likely to get services delivered in our community, have our community developed, and receive the necessary budget to cover our community’s ideal plans aligned with the IDP.

They must vote for the candidate that is accessible to them and has the energy to be sent up and down on matters concerning their immediate challenges.

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