ActionSA has announced it will not support the City of Johannesburg’s latest budget, accusing the municipal government of ignoring public frustration and failing to implement pro-poor reforms. The party’s primary objection centers on the continuation of the R200 prepaid electricity surcharge, which remains in place for another financial year despite earlier promises to address it.
Steven Nkonyeni, ActionSA’s chief whip for finance, criticized the city’s leadership for “kicking the can down the road” rather than delivering on commitments to ease the financial burden on residents. “Promises have been made, promises have been negated,” Nkonyeni said in a televised interview. “We see a complete turnaround from what was initially negotiated.”
Insourcing and Security Concerns
Beyond the electricity surcharge, ActionSA raised concerns over unresolved issues with insourcing, particularly for cleaners and security personnel. Nkonyeni highlighted a lack of training and essential tools, such as walkie-talkies, which he argued undermines safety and efficiency. “How do we fight crime or secure city infrastructure without the necessary resources?” he questioned.
G20 Summit and Political Tensions
With Johannesburg set to host the G20 Leaders’ Summit later this year, Nkonyeni expressed skepticism about the city’s sudden focus on infrastructure improvements, suggesting it was more about optics than genuine service delivery. He referenced President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent unannounced visit to the inner city, where he reportedly condemned the filth and disrepair.
“Why did it take a presidential scolding for the city to act?” Nkonyeni asked, accusing the ANC-led administration of neglecting residents until international scrutiny loomed.
ANC-ActionSA Relationship Under Strain
While ActionSA has cooperated with the ANC in other municipalities, Nkonyeni noted that dynamics in Johannesburg differ significantly. Unlike in Tshwane, where ActionSA holds the mayoral position, the party in Johannesburg remains outside the executive, limiting its influence over budget decisions.
“We are willing to cooperate, but we will not give the ANC a blank check,” Nkonyeni stated, reaffirming ActionSA’s commitment to legislative oversight rather than unconditional support.
Provincial Intervention Questioned
Nkonyeni dismissed the Gauteng provincial government’s “restoration project” as a reactive measure ahead of the G20 summit rather than a sustainable solution. He argued that Johannesburg’s challenges—from electricity costs to sanitation—require consistent governance, not last-minute fixes.
As budget negotiations continue, ActionSA’s opposition signals growing discontent with the city’s leadership, setting the stage for further political clashes in the coming months.