Political Turmoil: Cilliers Brink Ousted as Tshwane Mayor

The political landscape in Tshwane was shaken following the removal of former Executive Mayor Cilliers Brink. The ousting occurred after a successful motion of no confidence filed against him, which the African National Congress (ANC) initiated during a council session at Tshwane House on Thursday, September 26.

The decisive motion was introduced by Herman Mashaba from ActionSA, leading to Brink’s removal. In response, Brink expressed bewilderment regarding any ongoing disputes with ActionSA, mentioning that prior disagreements had been resolved. “There is no clear reason for my removal,” Brink stated, highlighting the implications of frequent mayoral changes for governance in Tshwane. “A mayor needs time to bring positive change; if the mayor keeps changing, this can’t happen,” he emphasized.

Brink accused ActionSA of dissatisfaction with recent electoral outcomes, suggesting their strategic repositioning. He criticized the lack of a concrete alternative from the ANC and ActionSA, pointing out the absence of a succession plan post-ouster. Brink was particularly surprised by the Inkatha Freedom Party‘s (IFP) abstention during the vote.

His removal has sparked commentary from notable figures, including Helen Zille, Chairperson of the Democratic Alliance‘s (DA) Federal Council. In a missive to ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, Zille detailed the DA’s stance, demanding Brink’s reinstatement as part of efforts to secure stability in metropolitan areas ahead of the 2026 municipal elections. “Discussions on achieving stability in Tshwane had been ongoing,” Zille remarked, adding that “the motion was not due to poor performance but rather his effectiveness.”

The ANC, through Gauteng Secretary TK Nciza, accused the DA of fomenting divisions within the ANC ranks, alleging efforts to create a misleading narrative of discord. Nciza further criticized the DA for what he termed as a “throttling” approach in legislatures under its control.

Amidst this political maneuvering, the Tshwane council has a 14-day window to elect a new mayor, as confirmed by Council Speaker Mncedi Ndzwanana. The DA intends to nominate Brink once more, while ActionSA plans to propose Deputy Mayor Nasiphi Moya for the role.