The Democratic Alliance has raised serious concerns about the financial sustainability and service delivery performance of the Msukaligwa Local Municipality following the first Ordinary Council meeting of 2026. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Auditor-General’s office, whose findings formed a key part of discussions.
Speaking after the meeting, Ward 7 Councillor JJ Scholtz said the Auditor-General’s presentation highlighted what he described as serious concerns regarding the municipality’s financial position. According to Scholtz, the Auditor-General flagged the approval of an unfunded municipal budget, meaning spending was approved without sufficient revenue to support it. He said the Democratic Alliance did not support the budget due to the financial risks involved, which he said are now being confirmed by the audit findings. Scholtz further noted concerns around ongoing fruitless and wasteful expenditure that, according to the Auditor-General, has remained unresolved since 2022.
In addition to financial concerns, Scholtz pointed to what he described as widespread service delivery failures across multiple wards. He cited ongoing water supply interruptions, electricity outages, sewage spills and potholes as persistent problems that are not being adequately addressed. He further criticised the lack of enforcement of existing municipal bylaws, including those related to roaming animals, public drinking, loitering, littering and environmental neglect, stating that enforcement remains largely absent despite bylaws being in place.
Scholtz said the DA and other opposition parties have repeatedly offered assistance and proposed solutions to help address the municipality’s financial challenges, but claimed no meaningful response has been received from municipal leadership.
Concluding his remarks, Scholtz said the DA will continue to hold the municipality accountable and advocate for responsible governance and improved service delivery. He said residents would have an opportunity to effect change during the 2026 municipal elections.
Source: Statement by Ward 7 Councillor JJ Scholtz (Democratic Alliance), following the first Ordinary Council meeting of 2026.