A shocking investigation by DOCRRA has uncovered a pervasive culture of abuse of power among councillors in township wards, where public municipal resources and facilities are captured for their own political and personal gain.
Instead of serving and representing their constituents, these councillors have transformed their wards into personal kingdoms, wielding absolute control over essential services and facilities. Residents are beholden to them for proof of residence for identification applications and access to municipal facilities like taxi ranks, sporting fields, and resource centres, and is only granted to those who curry favour with the councillor.
Furthermore, sponsorships for community events are also funnelled through the councillor’s control, and jobs are reserved exclusively for loyal supporters. Ward committees are ineffective, and public meetings are rarely (if ever) held, perpetuating a culture of secrecy and disenfranchisement.
Alarmingly, municipal administrators are aware of these abuses but fail to manage the processes and resources under their purview effectively.
DOCRRA, supported by other civil society organisations, has reported these findings, calling for urgent action to address this travesty and restore democratic governance in township wards.
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