SEDIBENG. – What has changed since the 2021 elections that now makes Herman Mashaba wants to come and rescue us when he previously showed no interest?

This is the question that is asked by one of the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) coalition party members, the New Horizon Movement (NHM), following a call by ActionSA to dissolve the municipality. ActionSA recently called on the Gauteng provincial government to dissolve the ELM Council and have the municipality placed under administration after:

“It repeatedly failed to deliver basic services, in line with Section 139(1)(c) of the South African Constitution.”

NHM’s Spokesperson, Mpho Khang said that they welcome the interest expressed and shown by Herman Mashaba and ActionSA in ELM and wish them well in their endeavour to join in the daunting task of trying to save ELM from the ANC’s misrule.

“However, we disagree with their proposal for the dissolution of the ELM. While we recognise the need for improved governance within the municipality, we believe that calling for dissolution is political opportunism rather than a thoughtful and constructive solution.”

Making it one of the major decision-makers in the municipality, NHM, ANC, PAC, Patriotic Alliance, Solidarity Party, and Vaal Party are in a coalition at the ELM.

Khang said that it was noted that during the 2021 local elections, when citizens in Emfuleni were looking for alternative options and actively seeking change, ActionSA chose not to contest power specifically in the municipality.

“They disregarded the concerns and aspirations of the local residents and their members in the region, claiming that ELM was too corrupt and put their focus towards metros instead. This (recent) decision raises questions about their motives, commitment, and sincerity to addressing the long-standing challenges faced by the people of Emfuleni Local Municipality.”

Khang further said that it appears that ActionSA has recognised the potential value of ELM votes in trying to win the Gauteng province, and their campaign for dissolution may be a strategic move to appeal to voters for their own political gain.

“This inconsistency in their approach casts doubt on their credibility and raises questions about their true intentions.”