What is happening?
The Eastern Cape government has launched a new “Non-Negotiables Booklet” aimed at strengthening municipal performance and accountability.
The launch was led by MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Zolile Williams, in Sterkspruit under the Senqu Local Municipality.
Municipalities in the Alfred Nzo and Chris Hani districts also participated in the regional rollout.
Why it matters to you
The booklet sets out clear expectations for how municipalities must operate.
It aims to:
- Standardise how municipalities deliver services
- Hold both political and administrative leaders accountable
- Encourage visible action and community involvement
This means that local governments—including in Alfred Nzo—will be expected to improve the way they maintain roads, manage town infrastructure, and respond to service delivery backlogs.
What you need to know
The new non-negotiables focus on practical, measurable basics that all municipalities must follow. These include:
- Fixing potholes
- Repairing paving blocks
- Cleaning stormwater drains
- Beautifying towns and public spaces
- Enforcing consequence management for non-performance
- Mobilising stakeholders for active participation
At the launch, MEC Williams and his team took part in cleaning and repair work to demonstrate that service delivery must go beyond paperwork.
Key focus areas in the booklet include:
| Priority Action | Required Outcome |
|---|---|
| Pothole repairs | Safer local roads |
| Block paving maintenance | Improved walkways and public safety |
| Drain and stormwater cleaning | Reduced flooding risk |
| Town beautification | Cleaner, more functional spaces |
| Accountability enforcement | Stronger municipal leadership |
What you should do next
Residents and ward committees can:
- Use the booklet to hold municipalities accountable
- Track visible improvements in their towns
- Report issues that fall under the listed non-negotiables
If you don’t see action in your area, raise the issue through your ward councillor or municipal service desk.
Where to get help / official sources
For more on the Non-Negotiables Booklet and service delivery standards:
- Contact your local municipality (Senqu, Alfred Nzo, or Chris Hani)
- Visit the Eastern Cape COGTA office
- Follow updates via official EC COGTA communication platforms
