Tensions erupted at the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) budget hearings in Tongaat recently after proceedings were derailed by disruptive actions from ANC members, drawing sharp criticism from the Democratic Alliance (DA).
According to DA eThekwini Executive Committee (EXCO) member, Councillor Yogis Govender, the hearings, which were scheduled to engage residents on the proposed municipal budget, were abruptly halted after ANC supporters disrupted the session with chants, songs, and threats of violence. The party reportedly demanded the program be suspended due to unresolved issues concerning ward councillors in Wards 60 and 62.
“The ANC’s actions are a blatant attack on democracy and an embarrassment to the party,” said Govender. “Their behaviour shows they are more interested in political point-scoring than engaging with communities on matters that affect service delivery and daily life.”
Govender expressed concern over the absence of police intervention, stating that the failure of SAPS and Metro Police to maintain order raised serious questions about public safety at municipal events.
The DA has been vocally opposed to the proposed budget, which includes substantial tariff increases. The party argues that the increases are being used to plug the gap left by the city’s ballooning R37.8 billion in unpaid municipal bills — 75% of which is due to non-payment for rates, water, and electricity.
“This is a financial crisis of the municipality’s own making,” said Govender. “Instead of implementing strategies to recover debt, the ANC-led coalition — along with the IFP and EFF — is choosing to shift the burden onto law-abiding ratepayers.”
The DA confirmed it would vote against the proposed budget and called on the ANC to reflect on its conduct and focus on genuine community engagement.
Residents are left waiting for clarity on the next steps for the IDP hearings, as growing discontent over poor service delivery and rising costs continues to fuel political tensions in the city.
