Public

polls, but when it comes to execution, they pass the buck.

The essence of accountability is how well councillors and mayors carry out their responsibility to the public to ensure the best use of resources.

Voters are no longer content to simply trust their politicians and their government to manage the affairs of the nation. They want increased public scrutiny and public involvement in the decision-making process.

Let us promote bottom-up accountability by increasing the engagement of citizens and civic actors, particularly disadvantaged groups, in local governance processes.

Exercising accountability well – consistently and publicly – improve responsibility and performance by municipal governments and the public service.

We live in a world that is constantly changing, extremely complex, and very competitive. I have faith that accountability, honesty and integrity will win in the end; and a new culture, climate and environment will be created for the common good of all.

There is only one way to restore confidence in the political system: politicians must regain

Phumulo Masualle is premier of the Eastern Cape province