The residents of Merafong and Moutse districts have combined forces in a joint court challenge against the re-demarcation of their areas.
But the government recently dismissed any possibility of reconsidering Parliament’s decision on the eradication of cross-border municipalities, or of reversing the constitutional amendment required for this.
Government spokesperson Joel Netshitenzhe said the decision on cross-border municipalities was taken by Parliament and that the Constitution would not be amended a second time.
“Only if the court obliges, that’s when government can look for ways to [reconsider its decision],” he said.
At a recent meeting between representatives of Moutse and Merafong it was agreed that a court case against the government would be filed on Friday.
The two communities will also march to the Union Buildings next month to hand a memorandum to the Presidency.
The court challenge will be funded by community contributions. In Khutsong, each household has been asked to donate R50.
In Moutse, the local taxi association, the Marble Hall/Groblersdal business chamber and individuals have contributed.
South African Communist Party West Rand district secretary Nkosiphendule Kolisile said: “People of Moutse and Merafong have come together to fight the government in court for imposing itself over their right to choose what they want.”
Also filing a court case against the government are residents of Matatiele in KwaZulu-Natal, who are disputing their incorporation in the Eastern Cape.
The Khutsong community, which did not vote in the elections, has said it will not recognise the mayor and his new council.