Political Moves In Tshwane: ActionSA And ANC In Talks Amidst Public Criticism

Holifil

30 Mar, 2025

ActionSA and the ANC are negotiating to collaborate and seize control of the Tshwane metro.
Herman Mashaba has proposed an ActionSA candidate, Nasiphi Moya, to take over as the new mayor of Tshwane.
The council has fewer than 14 days to select a new mayor after Cilliers Brink's removal.

South Africans are accusing Herman Mashaba and ActionSA of self-serving motives after nominating a candidate for the new mayor of Tshwane. Image: Fani Mahuntsi Source: Getty Images

Are Tshwane's politicians really considering the needs of the city's residents? That's the question buzzing on social media as the power struggle intensifies over who will lead the Tshwane Municipality next. After the Democratic Alliance's (DA) Cilliers Brink was ousted as mayor, the clock is ticking for the council to elect a replacement within the next two weeks.

Who's in the Running for Tshwane's Top Job?

ActionSA, which once partnered with the DA in Tshwane, has already thrown its hat into the ring by nominating a candidate for the mayor's position. Herman Mashaba confirmed that ActionSA is backing Nasiphi Moya, the current deputy mayor, for the role. However, the African National Congress (ANC) is also eyeing the mayoral chain and could be fielding its own contender. Mashaba has publicly stated that ActionSA would only support the ANC's nominee if they propose someone more qualified than Moya. Meanwhile, ActionSA and the ANC are in active negotiations to work together and take the reins in Tshwane. While the parties haven't finalized who will occupy the top seat, many South Africans are questioning whether ActionSA's motives are truly altruistic or if they're simply angling for more power.

Public Backlash Against ActionSA

As the political chess game unfolds, social media users are not holding back their criticisms of ActionSA. Moreshka Lebona summed up the sentiment of many when she remarked, "So, it was never about the residents; it was always about themselves." Louise Lubbe chimed in with her own critique: "And so the demands begin. ASA is going to fall flat on their faces. I hope the ANC kicks them back to the gutters where they belong." Charmaine Joseph added fuel to the fire, saying, "Mashaba just wants a piece of the pie. That's why he got rid of the DA. He's desperate to get his hands on the finances, shame." Eleanor Poulter echoed similar sentiments, stating, "It's all about power and control, not the well-being of the metro and its residents." Even Hilton Campbell couldn't resist a jab, joking, "Mashaba just made ActionSA into ActionlessSA." Kruidjie Roermynie concluded, "ActionSA also wants a slice of that pie."

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ActionSA's Stance on the Government of National Unity

In a related development, Briefly News reported that ActionSA has voiced dissatisfaction with the Government of National Unity (GNU). Although ten of the eighteen parties in the National Assembly form part of the GNU, ActionSA is notably absent. Recently, ActionSA's national chairperson, Michael Beaumont, criticized the GNU, claiming it has accomplished nothing since assuming power. The tension between ActionSA and the GNU highlights the broader political landscape in which ActionSA finds itself as it navigates its role in local and national politics.

As the drama unfolds in Tshwane, one thing is clear: the citizens of the metro are watching closely to see whether the new leadership will prioritize their needs or merely serve their own interests. The next few days will be crucial in determining the future direction of the city and its governance.