Details
For a recording of the event, please go to FW de Klerk Foundation Annual Conference: Local Government Elections 2026
The FW de Klerk Foundation, in partnership with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), successfully hosted its Annual Conference on 3 February 2026, marking the 36th anniversary of FW de Klerk’s historic parliamentary speech that paved the way for South Africa’s constitutional transformation.
This year’s conference focused on the theme “Local Government Elections 2026 – Chances & Challenges for Municipalities to Fulfil their Constitutional Mandate”, a timely and critical discussion as South Africa prepares for the upcoming local government elections. The event brought together policymakers, governance experts, civil society representatives, and members of the public to reflect on the state of local governance and the constitutional responsibilities of municipalities.
The conference featured a distinguished panel of speakers who approached the theme from complementary perspectives. Mr Velenkosini Hlabisa, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and President of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), reflected on the political and institutional responsibilities of municipalities in strengthening democratic governance at the local level. He emphasised the importance of cooperative governance, effective leadership, and community participation.
Ms Tsakani Maluleke, Auditor-General of South Africa, delivered a compelling presentation entitled “Local Elections from a Financial Management and Accountability Perspective”. She highlighted persistent challenges facing municipalities, including weak financial controls, poor accountability mechanisms, and the urgent need to strengthen oversight in order to ensure sustainable service delivery and public trust.
Offering a practitioner’s perspective, Dr Ruben Richards, Executive Deputy Mayor of the Cederberg Municipality, shared insights on governance at the coalface of local government. Drawing on his experience, he discussed practical constraints faced by municipalities, as well as opportunities for innovation, sound administration, and responsive leadership.
A special highlight of the conference was the posthumous awarding of the 2025 FW de Klerk Goodwill Award to Dr Franklin Sonn, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to constitutionalism, reconciliation, and good governance. The award was presented by Ms Elita de Klerk, Chairperson of the FW de Klerk Foundation, and accepted by Dr Sonn’s family. Mr Crispin Sonn responded on behalf of the family, paying tribute to Dr Sonn’s enduring legacy and values.
The 2026 Annual Conference reaffirmed the FW de Klerk Foundation and KAS’s shared commitment to promoting constitutional democracy, accountable governance, and informed public dialogue, particularly at a time when the role of local government remains central to South Africa’s democratic future.
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