The African National Congress (ANC) in Tshwane has launched a fierce attack on City Manager Johann Mettler, demanding his removal over allegations of an “unlawful” appointment. However, critics argue that the ANC’s sudden moral outrage reeks of political vendetta rather than genuine concern for governance.
Questionable Timing and Motives
The ANC claims that Mettler’s September 2022 appointment was flawed, alleging that the selection panel did not comply with legal requirements. According to ANC regional coordinator George Matjila, the panel should have consisted of only two councillors and an external member, but instead included four councillors—a procedural irregularity they insist invalidates Mettler’s position.
Yet, the timing of this outcry is suspicious. If the appointment was truly unlawful, why has it taken the ANC nearly two years to act? Observers suggest this is less about upholding the law and more about destabilizing a city administration where the ANC no longer holds power.
Selective Accountability?
Matjila insists the ANC is merely ensuring the law is followed, stating, “We have an interest as the ANC to ensure that the law is followed to the latter so that we don’t have delinquents running our institutions.”
But critics point out the irony—this is the same ANC that presided over rampant corruption and cadre deployment during its governance, leaving municipalities across South Africa in disarray. Now, in opposition, the party suddenly cares about “proper processes”?
Ignoring Performance, Focusing on Politics
Notably, the ANC has not accused Mettler of poor performance—only of being improperly appointed. When pressed on whether this was a political witch hunt, Majila denied it, but the party’s history of targeting officials in opposition-run municipalities suggests otherwise.
The DA-led coalition in Tshwane has been working to stabilize the city’s finances and service delivery after years of ANC mismanagement. Mettler, a seasoned administrator, has been central to these efforts. The ANC’s sudden demand for his removal—without evidence of misconduct—raises concerns that this is a ploy to sow chaos ahead of the 2024 elections.
Costly Consequences
If Mettler is forced out, Tshwane could face a costly legal battle and severance payout—millions that should be spent on service delivery. The ANC’s disregard for fiscal responsibility in pursuit of political points further exposes its hypocrisy.
What Next?
The ANC’s aggressive posture threatens to destabilize Tshwane’s administration at a time when stability is crucial. Whether this is a genuine legal challenge or a politically motivated attack remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: the ANC’s sudden obsession with “lawful appointments” rings hollow given its own track record.
As this battle unfolds, residents are left to wonder: Is this about justice, or just another ANC power play?
