Phiwokuhle Mothemela
The Eastern Cape government has established a forum that it says seeks to strengthen ties between the three spheres of government.
The launch of the Municipal Participation and Rapid Advisory Forum took place at the Coega Village in Gqeberha on Thursday and was attended by 39 mayors from across the province.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Zolile Williams, said the forum will address gaps between the three spheres of government by promoting better coordination and faster responses to community needs.
"Today, as we launch this forum, we are laying the foundation for deeper democratic practices. We are building a platform that not only amplifies the voices of our communities but also holds our government accountable to the people it serves," says Williams.
"One of the critical aims of this forum is that it responds to the needs of our people urgently. For too long public participation processes have been fragmented and ineffective. This forum must address that gap by promoting better coordination."
During the launch, Williams spoke of the importance of the inclusion of traditional leaders in the forum.
"Traditional leaders have always played a crucial role in the lives of our communities. Their wisdom and guidance must be integrated into our systems of governance, therefore, this advisory forum seeks to close the gap ensuring that all leaders work together to service our people."
The MEC said the theme of the event is strengthening participatory democracy by allowing people to have a voice in how they are governed.
"This theme speaks directly to the core objectives of the Municipal Public Participation & Rapid Advisory Forum."
Nelson Mandela Bay mayor Gary van Niekerk and Williams were the first officials to sign the certificate of commitment and pledge, followed by the mayors of the various districts.
He urged mayors and officials to ensure that this forum is not just another initiative, "But a living, breathing mechanism for active public participation. Our communities are tired of waiting they demand action, not excuses."
He said it is up to them as leaders, to meet these expectations and deliver the services the people deserve.
