Drawing on COMPACT’s work, this episode explores party promises concerning ward committees, participatory budgeting, municipal communication and public accountability. It asks whether these commitments would give residents meaningful influence over local government or simply create more consultation processes.

Host Tasneem Essop speaks with Kate Tissington, Jabu Hlatshwayo and Khanyisile Ngqalela about what meaningful participation requires: accessible information, involvement before decisions are made, and feedback that shows how residents’ concerns have been addressed. They discuss who is left out, what communities can do when municipalities fail to respond, and the practical signs residents can look for as new councils take office.

With a week to go before the local government elections, PARI colleagues reflect on the mood around the country and the choices facing voters. They discuss turnout, party campaigns and promises, coalition government, youth participation and the issues shaping the election debate.

What needs to happen inside a municipality for a political promise to become a working service? Host Tasneem Essop speaks with PARI’s Sithembile Mbete, Waseem Holland and Sarah Meny-Gibert about the people, systems and decisions that connect plans and budgets to delivery.

Starting with Johannesburg’s struggles to provide functioning fire services, the episode explores procurement failures, political interference and the unequal consequences of administrative neglect. It asks how appointments could be made more transparent, why outsourcing still requires expertise within municipalities, and what concrete commitments voters should demand when parties promise capable, ethical government.