DURBAN – KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, met this morning with the eThekwini Ratepayers Movement (ERPM) as part of efforts to enhance relations between the department and stakeholders within the sphere of local government.
The meeting follows correspondence received by the Office of the MEC from the organization, requesting an audience to discuss pressing challenges faced by residents of the metro. The organization, which represents over 57,000 households, emphasized its commitment to working together with the municipality to address the concerns of ratepayers.
In the meeting held in Pinetown, the ERPM outlined its core concerns, including the controversial 6kl backdate charge, billing irregularities, and other service delivery issues. MEC Buthelezi stressed the importance of open dialogue between the municipality and its residents, committing to work closely with the newly elected Mayor, Cllr. Cyril Xaba, to find solutions to these problems.
“We understand the frustrations experienced by eThekwini residents, and we are committed to working collaboratively with the ERPM and the metro to address the substantive issues raised by taxpayers,” said MEC Buthelezi. “Today’s meeting is just the beginning of what we believe will be a fruitful journey that will deliver effective and responsive services to our communities. We are committed to engaging all stakeholders within the sphere of local government, as their voice matters if we are to be effective in transforming this sphere,” added MEC Buthelezi.
Following the meeting, the MEC will engage Mayor Cyril Xaba, for more engagements between the parties in order to find practical solutions that will work in the interest of ratepayers.
ENDS
Issued by: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs