There are three spheres of Government established by the constitution. These include local, national and provincial. The Legislative Authority can be divided into the government spheres such as local, national and provincial. It may be said that for any amendment in the Constitution, the National Assembly can pass the legislation. As per the provincial government’s legislative authority, it can be said that it has the authority for passing a provincial constitution. Further, the provincial government has to monitor as well as provide support to the local government. This is done in the province by the legislature in different ways. Now, as we move to the next sections, we shall study the responsibility within the local government and the Municipal fiscal powers and functions.
Responsibilities within the Local Government
It may be said that the local government’s powers are vested in the municipal council. The constitutional objects regarding the responsibilities within the local government can include providing local communities with an accountable as well as democratic government. Secondly, ensuring that the services are being provided in a sustainable fashion to the community. Further, promoting economic as well as social welfare along with a healthy as well as a safe environment. Lastly, encouraging community involvement as well as community organisations regarding the local government’s matters.
According to the Constitution, certain developmental responsibilities can also be assigned to the municipalities.
Municipal fiscal powers and functions
There are some fiscal powers vested by the Constitution in the municipalities. As per section 229(1), one can learn about all that a municipality can impose. These points include the prices of property along with additional charges on the fees. This is mainly either on Municipality’s behalf or for the services provided. If the national legislation authorises other taxes, duties and levies suitable to the local government and or to that division of local government wherein that municipality is falling. It may be noted that municipalities may not work for imposing income tax, general sales tax, value-added tax as well as customs duty.
The Municipal Finance Management Act and other concerning legislation regulate the Municipal fiscal powers as well as functions in a comprehensive manner.
Conclusion
As observed from the above sections, the concept regarding the responsibilities within the local governments, the municipal legislative authorities and the municipal fiscal powers and functions can now be clearly understood. The above topics focused on the spheres of Government established by the Constitution and the way these spheres operate. The responsibilities within the local government have also been discussed in a detailed manner focusing on diverse significant responsibilities. Lastly, it can be concluded that through the help of the above sections one can better understand the responsibilities of the local governments, the municipal legislative authorities and the municipal fiscal powers.