Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke.
The Auditor-General’s report emphasises persistent governance issues in metros, as none achieve a clean audit. Although metros account for 54% of local government expenses and serve millions, Joburg is specifically noted as requiring continuous oversight from both authorities and the executive.
Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke warned that Gauteng's municipalities face declines in audits, financial stability, and services.
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) states the 2024/25 local government audit shows South Africa’s municipal crisis remains deep-rooted, despite slight improvements in some indicators.
“Residents are paying more every year for rates, taxes, electricity, water, sanitation, and refuse collection, yet many continue to face failing infrastructure, sewage spills, water losses, potholes, electricity outages, and declining municipal services,” said Julius Kleynhans, Executive Manager at OUTA.
