The Auditor-General's 2024-2025 report on local government highlights severe systemic challenges and governance failures across South African municipalities.Only 15% of municipalities achieved clean audits, with over half technically bankrupt and many experiencing declining performance.

The report underscores issues like corruption, financial mismanagement, and political instability in coalition governments, leading to interventions by National Treasury and Cogta.

Voters are urged to scrutinize candidates and prioritize informed decision-making ahead of the November elections, as poor governance impacts communities directly.The report also notes disparities in municipal performance, with the Western Cape's DA-controlled areas performing best.Calls for ethical accountability and professionalization of local governance persist, but challenges like cadre deployment hinder implementation.The article emphasizes the role of voters in forcing positive change and holding representatives accountable.