NKUNA, EUNA B.2011-04-192011-04-192011-04-19http://hdl.handle.net/10539/9532MM - P&DMA municipality is regarded as a sphere of government that is closer to the people and can be used as a bridge to close the gap. However municipalities are still faced with the challenge of adhering to the legislative pre-requisite of ensuring that there is public participation in the budget process. It is therefore important that this research investigate and explore public participation in the budget process of the Mbombela Local Municipality. A qualitative approach has been used as real events were identified and analyzed. More research is required that will focus on public participation in the budget process. The ineffectiveness of ward committees has contributed to the problems being experienced. All municipalities are mandated to come up with a mechanism that will ensure public participation as a function is in place. Administrative support for these ward committees is thus of great importance. Comprehensive capacity building programmes will assist officials, ward committees and the councillors to understand and be able to drive the function of public participation in the budget processenLocal authoritiesBudget processesPublic participation in decision makingThesis