Recently, a significant political shakeup has occurred in Tshwane with the removal of Mayor Cilliers Brink.
Outspoken podcaster Gareth Cliff has weighed in on the situation, bringing attention to the frustrations felt by many residents.
On September 26, Brink was ousted after serving for 18 months, following a motion of no confidence initiated by the ANC and backed by Action SA.
This decision has sparked outrage among citizens, including Cliff, who has publicly announced his intent to stop paying municipal rates as a form of protest.
Gareth Cliff’s Bold Statement
Gareth Cliff took to his X account to express his strong feelings about the mayor’s dismissal.
He urged Pretoria residents to reconsider their payment of taxes and rates to the City of Tshwane, citing ongoing political instability and a lack of service delivery.
His tweet suggested a collective boycott: “If you live in Pretoria, don’t you think you should stop paying rates and taxes to the CoT?
Their internal politics, instability, and constant undermining of the mayor mean you won’t get service delivery anyway. I suggest we stop paying. Right now.”
Cliff’s words resonated with many, prompting a mixed bag of reactions.
While some followers praised him for his stance, others criticized him for seemingly advocating for lawlessness.
Clash with Action SA’s Herman Mashaba
In his commentary, Cliff didn’t hold back in targeting Action SA leader Herman Mashaba, who has been accused of political betrayal.
Mashaba, in support of the ANC’s motion, claimed the end of Brink’s tenure marked the close of an unsuccessful eight-year period for the DA in Tshwane.
Cliff retorted with disdain, expressing his eagerness to stop funding what he termed a “sh*t-show of a municipality.”
The exchange between the two has further ignited discussions on social media, highlighting the deep divide in public opinion regarding the local political landscape.
Cilliers Brink’s Response
Meanwhile, Cilliers Brink has expressed his disappointment over the decision that led to his removal.
With 120 councillors voting in favor of his ousting, he reflected on the ANC’s decision to ally with the EFF and Action SA, questioning the motivations behind their actions.
Brink emphasized, “I haven’t had any gesture of good faith from the ANC.
They looked pretty happy there with the EFF and Action SA. And I’m not quite sure what the future holds for the city.”
Brink also reaffirmed his commitment to the residents, stating that the focus should remain on ensuring a functional municipality, rather than on personal positions of power.
As the situation unfolds, many are left wondering what the future holds for Tshwane and its leadership.