The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in Gauteng expresses its deep concern over the failure of the City of Ekurhuleni Council to adopt the municipal budget. This unfortunate development threatens to undermine service delivery, delay critical infrastructure projects and further erode public confidence in local government.

At a time when residents are grappling with the high cost of living, unreliable electricity supply, deteriorating roads, water interruptions and growing unemployment, the inability of councillors to fulfil their constitutional responsibility places the interests of political parties above those of the people they were elected to serve.

Municipal budgets are not merely accounting documents; they are instruments through which communities access basic services and development. Failure to pass the budget creates uncertainty regarding the continuation of essential programmes, infrastructure maintenance, the provision of water and sanitation services, waste management and other critical functions necessary for the well-being of residents and workers.

COSATU Gauteng calls on all political parties represented in the Ekurhuleni Council to rise above narrow political interests and act with urgency and maturity to ensure the speedy adoption of a budget that prioritises the needs of working-class communities. Political instability and endless contestation cannot be allowed to hold the residents of Ekurhuleni hostage.

The Federation further urges the leadership of the municipality to engage all stakeholders in good faith and ensure that the final budget protects jobs, advances service delivery and supports programmes aimed at addressing poverty, inequality and unemployment.

Workers and communities cannot continue to bear the brunt of political disagreements. The people of Ekurhuleni deserve stable governance, accountable leadership and a municipality capable of delivering quality services efficiently and effectively.

COSATU Gauteng will continue to monitor developments closely and stands ready to work with all progressive forces committed to ensuring that the interests of workers and communities remain at the centre of governance.

Issued by COSATU Gauteng

Provincial Chairperson: Amos Vusi Monyela: 079 493 5002

Provincial Secretary: Louisah Moepeng Modikwe: 082 297 2659