MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Lebogang Maile has revealed that municipal councillors and officials collectively owe their municipalities more than R165 million.
The MEC revealed this at a recent press briefing, stating that officials account for about R160.2 million of the total debt, while councillors owe R5.5 million.
He also noted that the largest amounts are owed by officials in the City of Johannesburg (R74.8 million), the City of Tshwane (R36.2 million), and the City of Ekurhuleni (R22.9 million).
“These amounts are primarily attributable to municipal officials. Formal correspondence has been issued to municipalities to enforce recovery measures and ensure compliance by councillors and officials. In total, councillors in various municipalities in Gauteng owe municipalities an aggregated amount of R 5.5 million,” Maile said.
He added that steps are being taken to make sure councillors and officials settle their debts.
Maile said that failure to pay adds extra pressure on municipal finances, which are already struggling with unpaid bills and delays in important infrastructure projects.
According to Maile, households also account for the largest portion of unpaid municipal bills, making up 73% of the total outstanding debt.
“It must be noted that councillors who owe their respective municipalities, except for those in the city of Ekurhuleni, each have outstanding balances on their accounts ranging from R100,000 and above,” Maile added.
“In addition, officials owe their respective municipalities a total of R160.2 million, as of 31 December 2025. In this regard, the City of Johannesburg is leading with R72 million owed by officials. This is followed by the City of Tshwane and the City of Ekurhuleni, each with debts of over R10 million.”
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Mthobisi Nozulela
iol.co.za
