The race to lead the City of Tshwane is shaping up to be a political showdown between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), according to DA mayoral candidate Cilliers Brink.
Speaking at the DA’s manifesto launch in Mamelodi, Brink dismissed the idea that the contest is between himself and Nasiphi Moya, arguing instead that voters will decide between competing party-led coalitions in the upcoming 4 November local government elections.
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Tshwane Mayoral Race: ANC Vs DA Takes Centre Stage
Brink said his initial rise to mayor in 2021 came under unusual circumstances.
“In 2021, I wasn’t even a candidate for mayor. I stepped into the role after there was a resignation and to stabilise the coalition.
“Even when I was removed, it wasn’t by the voters, but by politicians who didn’t have a mandate to form a coalition with the ANC and EFF, as they did.”
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The former mayor described his 18-month tenure as valuable experience, saying it prepared him for leadership.
He pointed to stalled infrastructure projects, including the Hammanskraal water initiative, as examples of setbacks under the current coalition.
Brink also referenced delays affecting power infrastructure in areas such as Soshanguve, Silverton and Watloo, stressing the need to complete key developments.
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Economic Plans And Coalition Politics Shape Tshwane Election
Looking ahead, Brink said his priorities include tackling corruption, improving service delivery and boosting the local economy.
“First, I want to fire the corrupt politicians and tenderpreneurs and replace them with honest, hard-working professionals. Then restore the rule of law with crime-fighting technology, including a CCTV camera network, drones and a control room.”
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He added that assets like Wonderboom Airport, the fresh produce market and Bon Accord quarry could be leveraged to attract investment and create jobs.
Brink also signalled confidence in the DA’s ground campaign, noting the party has structures in all 107 wards.
“If the DA is given the opportunity, 50% plus one and five years in government, we can make those changes and turn the city around.”
He reiterated that the real contest is between party coalitions, suggesting that both the ANC and smaller parties could shift strategies ahead of the vote.
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