Pretoria, 24 May 2011 - Acting Minister for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs department Nathi Mthethwa applauds the peaceful conduct of all South African voters who came out in millions to exercise their constitutional right to elect political parties and councillors of their choice during the 2011 Local Government Elections.
Minister Mthethwa, who chairs the government Inter-ministerial Committee on local government elections, also congratulates the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for its tireless dedication and professionalism in conducting a free and fair election, once again.
"A pat on the back goes to all South African voters whose matured conduct and cooperation with officials before and during elections ensured that the environment was conducive to conducting elections which were free from disruptions," says Minister Mthethwa.
The 2011 Local Government Elections were characterized by lively and respectful campaigning with all political parties free to engage with voters in all areas. The commission highlighted decreased voter apathy and achieved an impressive 57.6% registered voters turn-out which is an improvement from the previous local government elections which scored below 50% mark.
Minister Mthethwa also welcomes the newly-elected and returning councillors to local government and reminds them that their election into municipal councils is about serving communities who have put their trust in them.
The Department of Cooperative Governance will soon roll out an official induction programme to introduce new councillors to local government operations. This will prepare them to serve people with efficiency, speed and be accountable to community.