BOKSBURG - Ekurhuleni is an industrial powerhouse, with factories, businesses and workers playing a key role in Gauteng’s economy. But the metro faces mounting challenges, from financial pressures and political instability to failing infrastructure and concerns about public safety.
The municipality has received a qualified audit opinion, while billions of rand in traffic fines are considered unlikely to be recovered. Electricity losses also remain a major concern, alongside questions about accountability, council infighting and developments emerging from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
For residents, these challenges have real consequences, including water supply disruptions, sewage spills, sinkholes and local businesses struggling to operate.
Public safety has also come under scrutiny following the discovery of women’s bodies in Ekurhuleni, prompting a presidential address and renewed calls for justice.
Against this backdrop, political parties seeking to lead the metro have outlined their plans for improving service delivery, strengthening financial management, addressing infrastructure challenges and creating safer communities.
ANC mayoral candidate Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, DA candidate Khathutshelo Rasilingwane, EFF candidate Ntabiseng Tshivenga and FF Plus candidate Jennifer Glover have set out their priorities for the municipality.