The City of Cape Town has taken a firm stance against the newly passed Public Procurement Act, with Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis declaring that the national government cannot dictate municipal operations. Speaking during a Youth Day event in Lavender Hill, Hill-Lewis argued that the Act undermines local governance and violates constitutional principles.
Municipal Autonomy Under Threat
Hill-Lewis emphasized that while South Africa remains a united country, local governments have the constitutional right to implement their own policies. “The Constitutional Court has repeatedly affirmed that municipalities are not mere extensions of the national government,” he stated. “Centralizing power in this way is unconstitutional and restricts our ability to serve our communities effectively.”
The mayor expressed confidence in the city’s legal challenge against the Act, citing previous court rulings that upheld local government autonomy. He warned that the legislation would stifle Cape Town’s economic growth initiatives, which are crucial for tackling youth unemployment.
Youth Unemployment and Economic Growth
During the Youth Day career expo in Lavender Hill—an area plagued by gang violence and unemployment—Hill-Lewis highlighted the city’s efforts to create job opportunities. “We are obsessed with growing the economy faster because that’s the only sustainable way to get young people into work,” he said.
Initiatives such as attracting international call centers, boosting tourism, and investing in infrastructure projects were cited as key strategies. While the Western Cape’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average, Hill-Lewis acknowledged that more work is needed to provide hope for the youth.
Push for Policing Devolution
The mayor also addressed ongoing negotiations with Police Minister Bheki Cele regarding the devolution of policing powers to metro police. Although new draft regulations propose expanded enforcement powers for metro officers, Hill-Lewis stressed that criminal investigative authority remains a critical missing component.
“Without investigative powers, our officers’ efforts to remove illegal guns from streets like Lavender Hill are undermined by failed prosecutions,” he said. “We need these powers to ensure criminals face justice.”
Youth Day Celebrations Amid Challenges
The Lavender Hill event showcased career opportunities, live performances, and motivational sessions for young attendees. Despite the rainy weather, the atmosphere was hopeful, with many expressing optimism about future prospects.
As Cape Town forges ahead with its legal and economic battles, Hill-Lewis reaffirmed the city’s commitment to local governance and youth empowerment. “We will keep fighting for the right to govern effectively and create opportunities for our people,” he concluded.
