Amid Service Delivery Crisis
Reporter – George April
CAPE TOWN:- The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) strongly condemns the reckless spending of public funds by the West Coast District Municipality, which has invited municipal representatives from across the Western Cape on an extravagant, all-expenses-paid, three-day cruise.
The purpose?
To discuss the financial struggles of municipalities, a bitter irony as taxpayers foot the bill for this luxury excursion.
“It is hypocrisy at its worst,” says ACDP Councillor Jeanette Gouws. “While residents battle soaring rates, failing service delivery, and economic hardship, officials are enjoying a taxpayer-funded cruise. This is an insult to every hardworking citizen who struggles daily to make ends meet.”
Adding to the outrage, it has emerged that Mossel Bay residents will be forced to cover their mayor’s travel costs to Cape Town and back, along with any subsistence allowance he claims. This blatant disregard for financial accountability exposes a deep disconnect between government officials and the communities they are supposed to serve.
Key Issues Raised by the ACDP:
- Luxury at public expense: A high-end cruise instead of a practical, cost-effective venue.
- Unjust burden on taxpayers: Mossel Bay residents are directly funding their mayor’s participation.
- Zero accountability: No transparency on the total costs or justification for this indulgence.
- Failure in governance: How can struggling municipalities justify spending on a lavish trip while pleading poverty?
The ACDP demands a full breakdown of costs and an explanation from the District Municipality on how such spending aligns with responsible governance.
“Discussions on financial difficulties should be conducted in modest, cost, conscious settings, not aboard a cruise ship,” Gouws stated. The party further urges the provincial government to step in and put a stop to this flagrant misuse of public funds. “The people of the Western Cape deserve leaders who prioritize service delivery and responsible spending, not officials who indulge in luxury while citizens suffer,” Gouws concluded.
For Media Enquiries – Jeanette Gouws
ACDP Councillor & Media Spokesperson
Cell – 072 997 0637
