VANDERBIJLPARK. – ELM Spokesperson Makhosonke Sangweni says, “The launch was guided by sections 72 to 78 of the Local Government Municipal Structures Act, which states that the elections and operations of Ward Committees be completed within 120 days from the first sitting of the new Council.
The Act stipulates that Ward committees should be fully established and functional in all wards of the municipality.” Soxuza says, “According to the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), ward committees are important for nurturing working relations between ward councillors and key stakeholders at ward level.
The ward committee system plays a critical role in bringing public participation to the forefront of governance.” Soxuza believes that the establishment of ward committees is one of several ways to ensure that residents give input on decisions affected by the Council.
“The Ward Committees nomination process started on Tuesday 02 February and will continue until Sunday 20 February at 16h00.”
Forms must be signed by the respective ward councillor and submitted to the Office of the Speaker located at the ELM Head Office, corner of Klasie Havenga and Frikkie Meyer Boulevard. The Office of the Speaker is currently distributing nomination forms for all 45 wards. Forms can be obtained at all municipal buildings such as libraries and clinics.
