Tshwane Mayor Faces Jail Threat Over Neglect of Fresh Produce Market

The Tshwane Fresh Produce Market, a vital hub for the city’s food supply chain, is once again in the spotlight. This time, the High Court in Pretoria has given the City of Tshwane a firm deadline: fix the market within 30 days, or top officials, including Mayor Nasiphi Moya and city manager Johann Mettler, could face one-month jail sentences suspended for a year.

A decade of neglect finally challenged

The market, which received an R18 million budget for upgrades in 2022, has suffered years of neglect. The court found the city guilty of contempt for failing to implement critical infrastructure improvements such as fire and smoke detection systems, electrical connectivity, sanitation, lifts, and security checkpoints.

The Institute of Market Agents of South Africa, led by chair Gjalt Hooghiemstra, welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the city’s legal obligation to provide basic municipal services under the Municipal Systems Act.

Legal consequences loom

Legal analyst Dr Llewelyn Curlewis explained that, in principle, the mayor could be jailed. “The mayor is ultimately responsible for the city’s actions and omissions, similar to how company directors are held accountable. The court will, however, give her reasonable time to comply before enforcing jail terms,” he said.

Curlewis noted that even if the verdict pertains to past administrations, the current mayor inherits responsibility and must act immediately to avoid personal liability.

City responds cautiously

City spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said officials were carefully analysing the judgment. “We are consulting legal experts, assessing potential impacts on municipal operations, and determining our course of action. The city remains committed to complying with the law,” Mashigo stated.

Political fallout and governance failures

Political tensions have long complicated the market’s management. Former Tshwane mayor Cilliers Brink said governance support officers were forced to resign, and the Tshwane Economic Development Agency’s supervisory mandate was terminated. ANC coalition politics have further stalled progress, leaving market management “delinquent,” according to Brink.

Economic development councillor Sarah Mabotsa, he added, had failed to assist effectively, exacerbating the neglect.

Industry voices welcome the judgment

Francois Rossouw, CEO of the Southern Africa Agricultural Initiative, praised the High Court ruling. “This is a clear signal to municipalities that managing, maintaining, and expanding fresh produce markets is non-negotiable. Neglecting these facilities affects food security and the livelihoods of countless traders and suppliers,” he said.

As the 30-day deadline ticks down, Tshwane’s mayor and city manager face not only legal pressure but intense public scrutiny. The case underscores broader concerns about municipal accountability, coalition politics, and the importance of functional infrastructure for urban food systems.

{Source: The Citizen}

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