The EFF in Tshwane has accused City Manager Johan Mettler of leaking confidential information to former ousted mayor Cilliers Brink.
The EFF claims that Brink is using the information to attempt to regain political relevance and resuscitation of his X-based political stage.
However, both Brink and Mettler have denied the allegations, challenging the EFF to provide proof of these claims.
The EFF said this blatant betrayal of trust by Mettler is not just an administrative oversight; it is a calculated move that undermines the governance and stability of Tshwane.
In a statement issued by EFF Tshwane regional chairperson Obakeng Ramabodu, the EFF condemns Mettler for leaking confidential information to Brink.
Ramabodu said in a statement that by feeding sensitive city issues to Brink, Mettler is actively contributing to the erosion of public confidence in the city’s leadership.
“Brink’s dismal performance during his mayoral term was a clear indication of his incapacity to lead, and the electorate made their stance clear. His current attempts to cling to relevance through social media antics are nothing short of pathetic,” said Ramabodu.
He further said the EFF demands that Mettler immediately halts his indiscretions and refrains from sharing any further confidential city information with Brink or any other unauthorised entities.
“This misuse of power is unacceptable, and the residents of Tshwane deserve transparency and accountability from their leaders, not clandestine dealings that serve personal ambitions.”
He said the EFF calls for an immediate investigation into these breaches of confidentiality and expects appropriate disciplinary measures to be executed against Mettler.
“Our commitment remains steadfast in protecting the integrity of Tshwane’s governance. We will not sit idly by while a failed politician attempts to manipulate city affairs from the sidelines.”
Ramabodu said the residents of Tshwane deserve leadership that is committed to their well-being and progress, not individuals who prioritise their political aspirations over the city’s interests.
“It is imperative that Mettler acts in accordance with the responsibilities of his office, and that Brink refrains from interfering in matters he failed to handle as mayor.”
Rekord contacted Brink to hear his side of the story and he rubbished the accusations.
Brink said he doesn’t know what information the EFF claims to be leaked.
“What confidential information was leaked? The EFF must specify this. If they can’t, then the accusation turns on them,” he told Rekord.
Brink asked: “What is the EFF busy with making vague and unsubstantiated allegations against the city manager?
“The EFF is a party of hate, violence and corruption. Their leaders stole the money of VBS depositors. They will lie to achieve political objectives,” he said.
Brink further said before entering government, the EFF threatened to remove Mettler from his position.
“We will be watching them very closely,” he concluded.
Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said the allegations have been discussed by Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya and Deputy Mayor Eugene Modise.
“Nasiphi and Modise have subsequently engaged the officials regarding the concerns raised. They are satisfied with the responses provided by the officials and consider the matter to be closed,” Mashigo said.
Mettler denied the allegations.
“The allegations are false and baseless as rulings of the CCMA, Bargaining Council, court judgements, etc. are neither private nor confidential and information/documents about those institutions are easily accessible to any member of the public. Having said this, I subscribe to the legal dictum that he who alleges should adduce evidence.”
🚨ICYMI🚨
The EFF in Tshwane Condemns City Manager Johan Mettler for Leaking Confidential Information to the Disgraced Former Mayor of the DA, Cilliers Brink. pic.twitter.com/LUPga3O3wa
— EFF Gauteng (@EFFGautengProv) January 9, 2025
That Johann Mettler must be fired from @CityTshwane for being untrustworthy. He’s the lapdog of @CilliersB
— Styles Rampora (@SRampora) January 9, 2025
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