Today’s judgment is a victory not only for the DA, but also for the rule of law, good governance and the residents of Tshwane.
The Court has restored the lawful administration of the City by ordering Johann Mettler’s return to work as City Manager.
By setting aside the unlawful decisions of the ANC-EFF-ActionSA coalition to suspend Tshwane City Manager Johann Mettler, the Court has reaffirmed that political majorities cannot ignore the law, manipulate Council processes or use municipal institutions to protect politically connected individuals.
The Coalition of Corruption’s decision to suspend a competent official while giving only a slap on the wrist to an official implicated at the Madlanga Commission exposed its true priorities: protecting political allies and entrenched interests while sidelining officials who stand for accountability and clean governance.
The aim was to install an acting City Manager at the start of the municipal financial year, gain control over the City’s budget and open the door to looting.
This case was about preventing the capture of Tshwane’s administration and defending institutions that belong to the people of the capital, not the politicians who temporarily occupy public office.
The Court’s decision has confirmed that there are consequences when the law is ignored.
The judgment also demonstrates the vital role of a strong opposition. Without executive power, we investigated, exposed and challenged unlawful conduct, and ultimately defeated it through the courts.
If we can protect the people of Tshwane from the opposition benches, imagine what we can achieve with an outright mandate to govern.
The 2026 local government election will give residents a clear choice: a coalition that treats public institutions as political tools, or a DA government committed to clean governance, accountability and the rule of law.
Today’s judgment shows that the fight against state capture in Tshwane can be won, and under a DA government, it will be.
English and Afrikaans soundbites by Ald Cilliers Brink.
Please find the judgement attached here.