Tshwane Council Approves R35,000 Monthly Allowance for VIP Protectors Critics Raise Eyebrows

Tshwane Council Approves Big Allowance for VIP Protectors

In a move that has quickly become controversial, the Tshwane City Council has unanimously approved a monthly allowance of R35,000 for each of its 63 VIP protectors. The decision was taken without input from all stakeholders hence the term “unilateral” in how it’s being rolled out.

What We Know

• Each of the 63 VIP protectors will receive R35,000 per month.

• The council decision was unanimous.

• Trade union IMATU has already flagged the figure as nearly double what the Auditor-General had previously flagged as excessive.

Where the Criticism is Coming From

Budget & Priorities

Critics argue that the allowance risks diverting funds from essential services. With many communities demanding better housing, roads, electricity, and water, a large allowance for VIP protection feels out of step with urgent needs.

Legality Concerns

There are red flags about whether this is compliant with overtime and labour law, and whether proper processes were followed:

• IMATU has raised concerns about possible contravention of laws around allowable overtime and special duty pay.

• Legal scholars and opposition parties may challenge whether such allowances require higher levels of approval, especially given the size.

Transparency

Residents and media are already asking: How was the amount calculated? What criteria define someone as a “VIP protector”? Are there performance or oversight mechanisms in place?

The Local Context Matters

Tshwane, like many major metros, faces tight budgets, rising service delivery demands, and community frustration over unmet promises.

In recent years:

• Many households have complained about inconsistent water supply.

• Road maintenance remains patchy in outlying suburbs.

• There is growing public demand for fiscal responsibility and transparency from municipal government.

Against this backdrop, large allowances to protectors of VIPs hit a nerve.

Public Reaction & Possible Fallout

On social media platforms shortly after the announcement:

• Some residents expressed anger: “Where’s the money going for our repairs and services?”

• Others say protection is needed for political representatives, but the scale and secrecy make this decision hard to swallow.

IMATU, the municipal workers’ union, is likely to challenge the allowance formally. Legal routes may be considered, especially if laws or municipal by-laws were bypassed.

What’s Unclear & What to Watch

• Whether the allowance will stand up under legal review (court challenges or oversight investigations)

• What safeguards and reporting requirements will apply

• If this becomes a precedent for other cities and metros

Final Thought: Balancing Security With Responsibility

There is no question that public officials sometimes need protection. But when the price tag is large and the process opaque, citizens have a right to expect accountability. Tshwane’s decision forces important questions: how we define “VIP,” how funds are allocated, and how to balance the protection of a few with the welfare of many.

If Tshwane wants public trust, this isn’t just about making decisions it’s about being clear, transparent, and fair.

{Source: IOL}

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