Politicians must tell the truth for a change

08 February 2016 - 02:10 By The Times Editorial

Gauteng's three biggest municipalities are facing a major cash-flow crisis. Thousands of residents are unable to pay their rates or for services, leaving the cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni carrying billions of rands of debt.Smaller municipalities are probably suffering a similar fate.The SA Local Government Association tells us that the high unemployment rate makes it impossible for many ratepayers to settle their debt.Studies by the association found that 58% of people living within municipalities are unable to pay for their rates or for services.It's a dire situation and is likely to get worse in this floundering economy.Coupled with this, indications are that, when Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan delivers his Budget speech this month, financial support to provinces and municipalities will be cut.This squeeze on municipal finances means that providing certain services, and maintaining key infrastructure, could be placed on the back-burner as councils look for ways to save money.As the country heads to local government elections later this year, politicians will campaign by promising to deliver services that they have no way of funding.But, instead of empty promises that will lead to protests, politicians should take the electorate into their confidence and tell it like it is.They should acknowledge the extent of ratepayers' debt and the inadequacy of municipal revenue, be realistic about what is achievable and bring in new workable ideas to generate cash.The electorate should not be taken for a ride and believe that, if they vote in a particular way they will get all that is on their wish list.Truth is the message that should dominate our discussion as we prepare for the local government elections...

There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.

From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.

For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.

Already subscribed? Sign in below.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.