By STAFF REPORTER
11 November 2026 – The Chairperson of South African Local Government Association (SALGA) in North West, Khumalo Molefe has called on municipal managers and councillors to ensure that legislative provisions and transitional guidelines are consistently applied during the transition to the incoming term of local government. Molefe said it was important for municipalities to understand and correctly implement the provisions of Section 26 of the Municipal Structures Act, particularly those relating to councillors’ terms of office, continuity of municipal governance and the responsibilities of incumbent political office bearers.
He emphasised that municipal administrations must handle the transition in accordance with the law and avoid inconsistent practices that could unfairly affect councillors. Molefe also raised concerns about administrative practices involving the return of municipal vehicles and financial deductions during the transition period. Molefe also urged Municipal Managers to uphold professionalism, respect the applicable legal framework and ensure that councillors are treated fairly and consistently.
“As SALGA in North West, we stress that the transition to a new municipal term should be managed through proper administrative processes, with due regard for the rights and responsibilities of outgoing councillors and the continuity of municipal operations.
“So, we on all municipal stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the relevant legislation and transitional guidelines to prevent unnecessary disputes and ensure a smooth handover of municipal governance,” he said.
Molefe said he has made his full message available in both Setswana and English to guide municipalities and councillors through the transition process.
