Ward committees urged to assist councillors
'We encourage communities to be intimately involved in matters of local government'
‘PUBLIC participation plays a key role in fostering service delivery initiatives and strengthening communication between the community and municipal councillors, thus reducing disputes and violent protests.
‘In moving South Africa forward, we therefore encourage communities to be intimately involved in matters of local government so as to strengthen democracy.’
This was the view of Fikile Msweli from the committee section in the City of uMhlathuze at the election of a ward committee for ward 27 held in Ngwelezana.
Explaining the concept of ward committees, Msweli said this was one of the mechanisms for entrenching democracy as it promotes social cohesion between government and its citizens, particularly in the provision of quality and sustainable services.
‘As we elect ward committee members today, we expect them to advise and make recommendations to the ward councillor on matters affecting the ward. ‘These are men and women who should not work in isolation, but with the community in assisting the ward councillor in identifying challenges and needs of the community,’ Msweli said.
‘Most importantly we expect you to ensure constructive interaction between the municipality and the community through community meetings.’
The 10 newly elected ward committee members for ward 27 are Bayede Dhlodhlo (Macekeni), Kotso Mofokeng (Isigisi), Mthobisi Mtshali (Nongweleza), Zinhle Madela (Manqomfini), Sakhile Mbatha (Area 2), Arthur Mtshali (Newtown), Thokozile Buthelezi (Cartage), Dumisani Mhlongo (uMhlanga), Nomthandazo Gumede (B Section) and Sithembiso Mthiyane (Jabulani Section).
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