The Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) has announced it will not alter any municipal boundaries following a nationwide consultation process and extensive research. The decision, communicated earlier this month, affects 13 cases across 18 municipalities, leaving some communities threatening legal action.
Final Decision Sparks Outcry
The MDB’s resolution has caused discontent in several provinces, including KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State, and North West. Affected municipalities include Ventersdorp, Tlokwe, Qwaqwa, Mjindi, and Naledi, among others. Some communities have vowed to challenge the decision in court—a move the MDB warns could delay the ward delimitation process ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
MDB representatives acknowledged that aggrieved parties could either request access to decision-making records—a 90-day process—or apply for a judicial review. “If there’s an application for review, it may cause delays, but the delimitation process must proceed in areas where cases were deferred,” an official stated.
Potential New Appeals Mechanism
Meanwhile, the MDB hinted at a future alternative to litigation. With the anticipated passing of the Independent Municipal Demarcation Authority Bill, an appeals board could be established to review contentious decisions before they reach the courts.
“Currently, the only option is a judicial review,” said an MDB spokesperson. “But once the new bill is enacted, an appeals process will allow communities to escalate disputes within the system.”
Preparing for 2026 Elections
The MDB is set to meet with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to discuss its findings and outline next steps. The IEC had given the board six months to finalize demarcations, which include determining ward numbers in metros and local councils.
Despite the backlash, the MDB emphasized that boundary changes are not a solution to service delivery failures. “Demarcation is no substitute for efficient governance,” the board stated. “Municipalities must ensure adequate service provision for all residents.”
As tensions rise, the coming months will determine whether disgruntled communities pursue legal action or await legislative changes for recourse.