SEDIBENG.- The DA believes that any governing arrangement must be judged by its ability to deliver accountable, transparent and effective local government.

This was revealed to Sedibeng Ster by the party’s Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) mayoral candidate, Kingsol Chabalala, who added that the DA has consistently raised concerns about the impact of coalition politics on the stability and effective functioning of the ELM.

Residents deserve a municipality that prioritises their needs over political negotiations and positions.

The DA’s position is that political instability, shifting alliances and disagreements among coalition partners risk undermining good governance, accountability and the delivery of essential services to residents. Chabalala told this publication that ELM residents deserve a municipality that prioritises their needs over political negotiations and positions.

He further stated that when political arrangements become the primary focus, the municipality risks losing sight of its core responsibility of providing reliable services, maintaining infrastructure, managing public finances responsibly and ensuring that residents receive value for their money.

The ELM is running on a coalition system, with the ruling party, ANC, being at the helm and other parties such as the EFF part of the ‘marriage’.

Currently, the ELM is running on a coalition system, with the ruling party, ANC, being at the helm and other parties such as the EFF part of the ‘marriage’.

“The consequences of political instability can be felt in communities through concerns about water and sanitation, electricity infrastructure, refuse removal, road maintenance and the overall condition of municipal services. These challenges require consistent leadership, clear priorities and decisive action—not prolonged political uncertainty. Political parties must put the interests of Emfuleni residents first and ensure that municipal decision-making is guided by sound governance principles rather than political expediency,” Chabalala explained.

The municipality needs stable leadership.

“The people of Emfuleni cannot afford continued uncertainty at the expense of service delivery. The municipality needs stable leadership, responsible financial management and a clear plan to address its governance and service delivery challenges.”

Chabalala said that his party will continue to advocate for accountability, transparency and practical solutions that put residents first.

“Emfuleni’s future must not be held hostage by political instability. Residents deserve a municipality that works for them, protects public resources and delivers the basic services they are entitled to expect.”