System of local government

System of local government (1) There is established a local government system where— (a) functions, responsibilities and resources from the national Government and provincial administration are transferred to the local authorities in a co-ordinated manner; (b) the people’s participation in democratic governance is promoted; (c) co-operative governance with the national Government, provincial administration and local authorities is promoted to support and enhance the developmental role of local government; (d) the capacity of local authorities to initiate, plan, manage and execute policies in respect of matters that affect the people within their respective districts is enhanced; (e) social, spatial, financial and economic planning, at the district level, is developed, prioritised and promoted; (f) a sound financial base is established for each local authority with reliable and predictable sources of revenue; (g) the performance of persons employed by the national Government and provincial administration to provide services in the sub-structures is overseen by local authorities; (h) the provision of Government services is monitored and projects are implemented in sub-structures; (i) accountability of local authorities is ensured; and (j) the right of local authorities to manage their affairs and to form partnerships, networks and associations to assist in the management of their respective districts and further their development is recognised. (2) The local government system shall— (a) be based on democratically elected councils; (b) promote democratic and accountable exercise of power; (c) foster national unity; (d) ensure that services are provided to sub-structures in an equitable and sustainable manner; (e) promote social and economic development; (f) promote a clean, safe and healthy environment; and (g) encourage the involvement of communities and community organisations in matters of local government.