The Greater Knysna Business Chamber notes the social media comments regarding their decision to, along with many other stakeholders, vote against dissolution of council under a Section 139(1)(c) intervention. While GKBC’s position was not the only factor considered, there have been many comments implying that GKBC’s vote may have been a deciding vote, which it was not. If one were to read the full NCOP decision the following would come to light, stakeholder opinions were one of the factors in their decision, they also found that the intervention was not substantively justifiable.
Their decision not to dissolve council was just one of eight items on their resolution and comes at a critical time for Knysna’s economy, with the festive season approaching — the town’s most important trading period. By avoiding the disruption and instability of an election over the Christmas holidays, the NCOP has provided certainty and continuity for local businesses, tourism operators, and residents who depend on a successful holiday season.
Key outcomes that benefit Knysna:
Structured support for Knysna – National and provincial departments (CoGTA, SALGA, and the Western Cape Government) are mandated to provide systematic assistance under Section 154 to build capacity and improve municipal performance.
Water and infrastructure relief – The Minister of Water and Sanitation must provide technical and financial help to address water, sanitation, and aging infrastructure challenges.
Less litigation, more collaboration – The NCOP has urged provincial and municipal leaders to resolve disputes through inter-governmental mechanisms, reducing wasteful legal costs and redirecting focus to service delivery.
Business and community engagement required – The Mayor is instructed to develop a Stakeholder Engagement Strategy involving the business sector, civil society, and community organisations in decisions on local development, jobs, and services.
Administrative strengthening – National departments must assist Knysna with staffing, tools of trade, and logistical support to ensure an effective and responsive local government.
Ongoing parliamentary oversight – Parliament will monitor Knysna’s progress through 2025 and 2026 to ensure accountability and sustained improvement.
A Turning Point for Knysna
The GKBC views this decision as a turning point for Knysna — a moment to rebuild trust, restore service delivery, and drive inclusive local growth.
We commend the NCOP for promoting cooperative governance over confrontation, and we call on all stakeholders — government, business, and civil society — to work together in the spirit of partnership to make these recommendations a reality.
The Greater Knysna Business Chamber is committed to working closely with both the NCOP and the Western Cape Government as active partners in implementing these recommendations and ensuring that Knysna’s recovery translates into tangible benefits for the local economy and community.
The GKBC also continues to closely monitor the Knysna Local Municipality report to the NCOP to ensure accountability, transparency, and progress on the delivery of essential services.
Issued by: Greater Knysna Business Chamber (GKBC)
