Cilliers Brink, the Democratic Alliance's (DA) mayoral candidate for Tshwane, has declared his intention to regain the mayoralty, two years after being ousted in September 2024. On September 26, 2024, the African National Congress (ANC) and ActionSA brought a motion of no confidence against Brink, leading to his removal as mayor of Tshwane. Brink aims to make Tshwane work for all its residents.
Brink addressed a gathering of approximately 4,200 DA supporters at the Saulsville arena in Atteridgeville, ahead of the local government elections. He emphasized the importance of voter turnout, stating that the city's future depends on ordinary people's participation in the elections. Brink expressed confidence in the DA's ability to bring about change, but stressed the need for a strong mandate to overcome resistance.
According to Brink, a majority is necessary to make difficult decisions and implement them. He believes that the ANC and its allies are not interested in a functional city, as it would undermine their interests. Brink accused the ANC of manipulating the system to maintain control and urged voters not to split their votes, warning that this could lead to the ANC's victory.
Brink criticized ActionSA, stating that the party's five-year term would only serve to perpetuate the current state of affairs in Tshwane, characterized by water shortages, power outages, and corrupt contracts. He urged voters to choose between an ANC-led or DA-led government, emphasizing that the latter has a proven track record of making municipalities work.
The DA's mayoral candidate highlighted the ANC's history of manipulating the system to maintain power. He warned that if voters entrust their votes to smaller parties, they risk being sold out to the ANC. Brink served as mayor for approximately 18 months, from March 28, 2023, to September 26, 2024, before being ousted.
Brink's removal was a result of Herman Mashaba's decision to have ActionSA join forces with the ANC in Tshwane. He was replaced by Dr. Nasiphi Moya of ActionSA. The upcoming local government elections will determine the future leadership of Tshwane, with Brink seeking to reclaim the mayoralty.
The elections will ultimately decide whether Tshwane will be led by an ANC or DA government. Brink has urged voters to support the DA, citing its ability to make municipalities work. The party's success will depend on voter turnout and the ability to secure a strong mandate.
Key points
- Cilliers Brink seeks to regain Tshwane mayoralty two years after being ousted.
- Brink emphasizes need for strong mandate to bring about change in Tshwane.
- DA's mayoral candidate criticizes ANC and ActionSA, urging voters to support DA.
