The Soutpansberg Ratepayer’s Association (SRPA) came under criticism from the SANCO (South African National Civic Organisation) Makhado sub-region for what the organisation deems the association’s “unfair attacks” on the Makhado Municipality and its municipal manager.

This allegation follows recent media reports that the SRPA is considering pursuing criminal charges against the municipality’s municipal manager, Mr Shadrack Tshikalange. The possible charges pertain to Section 173 of the Municipal Finance Management Act with regard to unauthorized, irregular or fruitless and wasteful expenditure.

“We are concerned about the attitude of the ratepayer’s association towards the Makhado Municipality. We have seen many articles criticising, demanding and questioning the municipality, but we don’t see appreciation for all that the municipality has done,” said Past T P Mashau from SANCO’s secretarial desk in a media release. As a structure representing 38 wards in every village, township and even Louis Trichardt, Mashau said they viewed these attacks as unfair, spurring on racial divide.

“The ratepayer’s association, like any other social structure, should not be an agent for driving this municipality with a remote control,” Mashau warned. A big thorn in the flesh for SANCO is the issue of the SRPA´s withholding rates and taxes as part of their dispute with the municipality.

“If they were serious about service delivery, why are they keeping the money?” Mashau asked. He also warned that if the SRPA does not understand the auditor general’s report, “they must not impose judgement or criminal charges as if they have proof of criminal offences committed by the municipal manager.”

As SANCO, Mashau said, they will not entertain any action which divides people, but invite people who come on board with constructive ideas towards better service delivery.