DA’s Brink Points to ANC Intervention as Root of Tshwane’s Financial Woes

The Democratic Alliance’s Tshwane mayoral candidate, Cilliers Brink, has pointed fingers at the ANC Gauteng government for the city’s mounting financial challenges. Speaking on the DA’s podcast on Sunday, the former mayor, who led the metro from March 2023 until September 2024, argued that what was meant to rescue Tshwane instead plunged it into deeper fiscal chaos.

From Surplus to Deficit

Brink highlighted the stark turnaround in the city’s books: “Before the ANC intervention, Tshwane enjoyed a budget surplus of more than R200 million. After their administration, the metro faced a R4 billion deficit.” He added that this period also contributed to the city falling behind on critical payments, including its Eskom account.

Brink, removed from office last year through a motion of no confidence, said the intervention was presented as a solution but failed to address the metro’s underlying financial management issues. “If you’re looking at why Tshwane is struggling financially today, a large part can be traced back to that period,” he said.

Eyes on the Future

Despite his removal, Brink has confirmed that he is putting his name forward to serve again as Tshwane’s mayor following the 2026 local government elections. He framed his campaign around restoring fiscal stability and transparency in the metro’s administration.

The former mayor’s remarks have sparked debate on social media. Supporters of the DA praised Brink for holding the ANC accountable, with one Twitter user commenting: “Finally, someone explaining how Tshwane’s finances went off the rails. The ANC intervention was a disaster.” Meanwhile, critics questioned whether Brink’s administration could have done more to prevent the deficit.

Local Context and Commentary

Tshwane’s financial woes have far-reaching consequences for residents, from service delivery delays to potential tariff increases. Analysts say the city’s struggle is emblematic of broader governance challenges in South African metros, where political interference and short-term interventions often exacerbate long-term fiscal problems.

Brink’s focus on restoring fiscal discipline could resonate with voters tired of repeated budget crises. The coming months will test whether his promise to bring Tshwane back from a R4 billion deficit into sustainable financial health can gain traction with residents and stakeholders alike.

{Source: EWN}

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