Pretoria – The South African Chamber of Commerce (SACCI) has congratulated South Africans on free and fair elections, while also calling for competent staff to fill vacancies that exist in local government.
SACCI president Chose Choeu on Monday congratulated the public as well as political parties following last Wednesday’s fair, free and peaceful municipal elections.
“This is indicative of the democratic progress that the country is experiencing,” he said, adding that the new office bearers as well as councillors face a challenging five years with considerable pressure on them to improve service delivery at local level.
Choeu said competent staff that are appropriately qualified and experienced needed to fill vacancies that are open in local government, as well as ensure that they are accountable and adhere to service level agreements should be appointed.
He added that to provide an environment that is conducive to economic growth, local government will have to address shortcomings in financial management and administration as well as deal appropriately with fraud and corruption thereby ensuring clean audits.
Road maintenance and water and electricity supply and quality as well containing the cost of doing business by keeping utility tariffs and rates as well as taxes at reasonable levels, smoothing the licensing process and cutting red tape should also be looked at.
Consultation as well as working together with stakeholders, particularly chambers of commerce in the development and implementation of development plans and local economic development strategies should also be looked at.
“Business is prepared to assist local government and looks forward to the successful implementation of the local government turnaround strategy that will ensure a better life for all,” said Choeu. – BuaNews
