This, after the municipality which serves the communities of Kroonstad and Steynsrus, amongst others, was heavily criticised for their high irregular expenditure, vacancy rates, and poor service delivery. 

The Municipality's Executive Mayor, Mpho Chakane, and Chief Financial Officer, Thuso Marumo, earlier on Wednesday had to account for their financial woes before the Public Accounts and Finance Committee. They appeared before the committee following a damning report by the Auditor-General indicating how the municipality not only fails to manage its finances, but also does not comply with Supply Chain Management procedures, and lacks sound leadership.

The committee, inclusive of various political parties, demanded that Chakane and Marumo provide them with clarity as to why the municipality is said to be plunging into a deeper financial rut.

Whilst the defiant Chakane has admitted to a number of concerns raised by members of the opposition following a presentation by the AG, he has, however, said the municipality is improving its performance.

According to Chakane, the municipality has been improving service delivery, working on filling strategic positions and has been consistent with the payment of third parties.

He, nonetheless, told the House "we pledge to strive for good governance and ensuring that our committees are fully functional in the council".

OFM News