Local accountability: Enforcing the Code of Conduct for councillors

Abstract

A perceived lack of responsiveness on the part of councillors towards their citizens as well as perceived, alleged and proven cases of corruption and maladministration involving councillors all contribute to the perception that municipal councils are not accountable to their local communities. While it is generally accepted and often reiterated that the necessary legislation to ensure accountable local government is in place, the lack of enforcement of this legislation is often cited as the problem.