The recently tabled proposed R44.4 billion medium-term draft budget of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM) has been met with criticism from opposition parties, leaving residents discouraged over planned increases to key municipal services.
Under the proposed budget, electricity tariffs are expected to increase by 9.9%, while water tariffs could rise by 14.4%. Solid waste tariffs are set to increase by 3.7% in line with National Treasury inflation guidelines, while sanitation charges will remain unchanged. Property rates, however, are expected to decrease by 5%. The municipality said the proposed increases are aimed at sustaining service delivery, addressing operational costs, and continuing support for indigent households. With public participation completed, the proposed adjustments just need to be approved by council before implementation on 1 July for the new financial year.
Opposition parties have already voiced concerns regarding the proposed increases. Frustrated residents also took to social media to express their dissatisfaction. One resident commented, “After billing consumers incorrectly and no one was held accountable for financial mismanagement now they want to hit us with tariff hikes.” Another said, “MMM is doing whatever they want.” DA councillor Paul Kotzé said the party is opposing the proposed tariff adjustments, arguing that residents are being asked to pay more while service delivery continues to deteriorate. “The DA will oppose and rigorously interrogate Mangaung’s proposed tariff increases, using every available oversight mechanism in Council to demand full accountability for why residents are being asked to pay more,” Kotzé said.
He further argued the metro’s challenges stem from poor governance rather than a lack of revenue. Kotzé pointed to pothole-ridden roads, sewer spillages, water interruptions, and deteriorating infrastructure as evidence that residents are paying more for unreliable services. “When infrastructure budgets are not spent properly, projects are delayed or abandoned, and essential assets such as roads, water networks, and sanitation systems are neglected, increased tariffs do not lead to improved services,” he added.
The party also said it would demand transparency regarding capital expenditure, infrastructure rollout, maintenance backlogs, and departmental accountability.
