ANC has no plans to diminish powers of Local Government

14 April 2009

The African National Congress has noted with dismay claims by Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Helen Zille that the ANC plans to diminish the powers of local government.

The ANC wishes to place on record that it has no intention to diminish in any way the constitutional powers of local government.

In fact, the ANC is determined that local government should be better empowered and have greater capacity so that it can respond to the needs of the people.

The DA's lies are a desperate and ill-fated attempt to mislead the public ahead of the election. A majority of these people targeted by Zille have already affirmed the ANC and its policies as their vehicle of choice in improving their living conditions.

The ANC is seeking a decisive mandate from the electorate to accelerate progress towards a better life for all.

In the remaining days before 22 April the ANC will continue to drive a positive message, underlining the need for South Africans to unite in addressing the challenges facing our nation.

The ANC will not be drawn into worthless spats with parties that have nothing to offer the South African people.

In 15 years we have shown what can be done when people come together in a common effort.

It has been 15 years of nation building, reconciliation and democratisation. We have built the foundation of a new society by enshrining the basic human and democratic rights of all in the country's constitution; building the institutions of our democracy; and ensuring citizen's participation in decision-making processes that affected their lives.

We have built democratic institutions that serve the interests and safeguard the rights of all South Africans.

Recent events have shown the capacity of these institutions to effectively perform their constitutional mandate even in the face of heated political and legal disputes.

We have made significant progress in tackling the apartheid legacy, building our economy and sustaining economic growth. While carefully managing public finances, we have invested significant resources into tackling poverty, meeting people's basic needs, and expanding access to education and health care.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to create more decent jobs, better health care, better education and safer communities.

Issued by: Jessie Duarte
National Spokesperson
African National Congress

More information:
Brian Sokutu 071 671 6919
Ishmael Mnisi 082 333 5550