In the end, this is a local government philosophy which coincides with the IFP s constant philosophy of the devolution of powers. The local level is the closest to the people on the ground. This is where ordinary voices must be heard. The IFP has always worked towards getting the power to make a difference and to be heard further down the ladder of governance and into communities. For this reason, December 5 can make a difference.
Every individual vote can make a difference.
Choosing the right leaders for local government means choosing the candidates who understand bottom up governance, who work closely with the people, who remain in communities, who maintain a dialogue and consult with those they govern. The candidates put forward by the IFP have been trained to serve and are well-grounded in the IFP principles of hard work, ethical action, accountability, responsibility and sound planning. These are the kind of leaders who can ensure that local government is not merely another impotent arm of central government, but is a dynamic, effective and efficient machine for delivery and development. In the next nine days the local government campaign is going to heat up and many promises will be made by those who have no intention of serving the people, but only of serving their own interests. There are those who seek to secure their position at the top by covering the bases, and they seek votes for power.