JOHANNESBURG - With existing negative perceptions around local government, the South African Local Government Association (South African Local Government Association) is seeking to change that.
SALGA is calling for the simplification of municipal structures as part of its proposals for the Review Draft White Paper on Local Government.
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The association is also proposing competency tests for ward councillors.
SALGA Chief Officer of Intergovernmental Relations and Municipal Resilience, Lance Joel, says eligibility should go beyond the basic requirement of being 18 years old and a South African citizen.
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"Should there not be other requirements in addition to that?" asked Joel.
Joel says appropriately qualified and experienced individuals should serve as councillors in local government.
He also highlighted the underfunding of municipalities and called for improved financial management to accelerate constitutionally mandated service delivery.
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"We want to introduce more discipline in the financial management at municipal level," he adds.
Joel says this is why SALGA is calling for a single competency framework.
The public has until 28 May to comment on the White Paper.