Deputy Minister Tau participates in a panel discussion on “Coalition Governments: The case of South Africa and on lived experiences under Coalition Governments”. Making his presentation, Deputy Minister Tau stated that COGTA is currently developing a coalition framework and a draft Bill amending the Local Government: Municipal Structures Act, 1998. This amendment will introduce, amongst others, that:
• Political parties contesting an election in a municipal council must obtain a minimum of 1% of the valid votes cast in order to qualify for the awarding of a seat on the council – thus minimising number of parties in a municipal council;
• A motion of no confidence in either the speaker or the mayor will only be permitted after 2 years since the council was last elected and by adopting a resolution to this effect with a supporting vote of at least two thirds of the councillors – thus reducing the prevalence of disruptions in as far as office bearers are concerned;
• Regulating the conclusion of the coalition agreement, including considering options to make it legally enforceable.
Also participating in the panel discussion are: Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Mr Amos Masondo; University of KZN, Prof Hope Magidimisha-Chipungu and representatives of NEDLAC (Organised Business; Organised Labour and Community Constituency).
