GEORGE NEWS - The upcoming George Municipality Ordinary Council Meeting on 26 March has caused disagreement over calls for it to be held in person, ahead of a debate on renaming PW Botha Boulevard.

Good George’s Cllr Chantelle Kyd said the issue is too important to be discussed from behind computer screens. “This debate must take place openly in the Council Chambers.” 

She said that the matter, which has generated significant public interest, speaks directly to how the community reflects on its history while building a democratic and inclusive future.

However, the municipality confirmed that the meeting will proceed virtually on Microsoft Teams.

In response to George Herald’s enquiries, Speaker Sean Snyman’s office cited Section 37 of the Local Government Municipal Structures Act, 1998, which empowers the speaker to preside over meetings and determine the time and place, without requiring a physical venue. The statement also referenced another act from 2000, which states that virtual meetings ensure efficient, accessible and transparent governance while allowing full participation.

Rosa Louw

Democratic debate

Good’s Cllr Rosa Louw responded to the municipality’s decision, calling the virtual format “draconian” and a suppression of democratic debate. 

“Instead of restoring visible, open governance, Council continues to shield itself from public scrutiny while spending taxpayers’ money on Chambers that remain unused,” she said.

Louw added that virtual meetings have been misused to block opposition microphones, mute voices and limit points of order. She compared this approach with former president PW Botha’s era of governance, saying: “Residents have the right to see their elected representatives at work. Council belongs to the people, not to a screen.”

She said the Good Caucus and other opposition parties will now take the fight directly to George’s communities, demanding accountability and the immediate return of Council to the Chamber.

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