ACDP Response to Motion of No Confidence in Tshwane's Executive Mayor
2 November 2006
Mr Speaker thank you
The ACDP believes in being objective and fair at all times. This is
part of being a constructive opposition. When someone has performed
well, we believe in praising them. When someone has performed below
expectations, we believe in pointing it out in such a way that the
person can learn from their mistakes and improve their performance.
When someone has neglected their duties or contravened the law, we
believe that they should be held responsible and that appropriate
action be taken. If that means he or she loses his her job, or ends up
in jail - that should be the consequence of unprofessional and
unacceptable actions.
As we said after her election, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa has a great task - to
ensure that this local authority delivers services to our communities.
It has to do so in a sustainable manner. This is her and our
constitutional mandate.
We are impressed with the way she has tackled her job so far. She has
certainly demonstrated an understanding of the main issues facing us,
an enthusiasm and work ethic which is commendable and a charisma which
has and will stand her in good stead.
It is however true to say that there are significant problems facing
the Tshwane Metro. We agree with the DA that the debtors issue tops the
list. Since the days of Mkhatshwa, we have heard that the ANC will
address this problem. This has not happened and in our view the culture
of non-payment caused by the selective application of credit control
measures has become even stronger. The financial viability of the
organisation is under serious threat. Other issues are the problems
with the extremely high crime levels; billing system problems - which
are improving; illegal squatting; deplorable customer service; and
allegations of corruption related to housing. These issues need to be
addressed urgently and decisively.
We also believe that she can demonstrate statesman-like leadership by
being more inclusive in her approach & appoint some opposition
party members in her Mayoral Committee. Multi-party democracy and the
input from people with different persuasions result in better
decision-making and go a long way to unite the different groups
represented. The government of national unity was a key to establishing
a peaceful new South Africa.
Have things deteriorated to such an extent during the 7 months since
her election, that it justifies a call for her resignation? We believe
not. This organisation is a big ship and we need to give the
captain a fair chance to turn it.
Madam Mayor, quoting from the Bible in Hebrews 6:10, we would like to
say to you - "God is not unfair. He will not forget how hard you have
worked for him."
The ACDP can thus not support this motion of no confidence at this stage.