Ramaphosa Signs New Municipal Laws Ahead Of South Africa’s Elections In November

PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that the Local Government: Municipal Structures Amendment Act will come into effect from 1 November 2021.

The Act, which was assented to by Ramaphosa in June, aims to strengthen governance in South Africa’s municipalities through a minimum councillor requirement and the introduction of a specialised code of conduct.

Councillors who are found breaking the code of conduct will be prohibited from serving for a period of two years. Among other changes, the code of conduct will require councillors to attend a separate number of meetings, and reject any gifts or favours.

Councillors will also be required to declare any special interests within 60 days of being elected.

This includes:

• Shares and securities in any company;
• Membership of any close corporation;
• Interest in any trust;
• Directorships;
• Partnerships;
• Other financial interests in any business undertaking;
• Employment and remuneration;
• Interest in property;
• Pension;
• Subsidies, grants and sponsorships by