Who needs local government if it can’t get anything done?
Community groups are seeking legal advice on withholding rates, after all, why pay if your money is merely going to be ‘eaten’?
A sea change is under way at local government level, one which all political parties had better watch out for. Citizens’ groups are taking control of municipal functions, some with the support of courts, and are delivering services in areas where they are collapsing.
The trend is being driven by voters who are sick of corrupt politicians — as every poll makes clear. For example, a poll run in late 2019 showed growing mistrust in political parties and politicians. There was a deep-seated belief that the country was headed in the wrong direction. More than 80% of respondents thought corruption was increasing...
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