A heated confrontation has emerged between ActionSA and the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Tshwane, following a series of social media revelations by ActionSA highlighting severe service delivery issues under the DA-led coalition government. ActionSA’s national chairperson, Michael Beaumont, has launched a public critique of the current administration’s handling of service delivery in the city. Despite ActionSA being part of the coalition government led by DA Mayor Cilliers Brink, Beaumont has been vocal about the decline in municipal services, particularly in Gauteng’s townships.
Beaumont’s criticism comes in the wake of a video circulating on social media showing an overflowing manhole in Soshanguve Block H, which he claims has been a persistent issue for two weeks. Beaumont criticized the municipality for failing to address the problem despite previous inspections. “The blockages in the sewer network are causing manholes to overflow, and the municipality’s response has been inadequate,” Beaumont stated. He accused the administration of neglecting the problem and leaving residents without solutions.
Beaumont’s criticisms extended to other areas as well. During a visit to Atteridgeville, he condemned the municipality’s failure to manage waste collection, and at the Chantelle social housing project in Pretoria North, he criticized the incomplete and abandoned development, despite significant investments from the City.
In response, Utility Services MMC Themba Fosi urged Beaumont to log official complaints and provide reference numbers, emphasizing that the issues raised should be addressed through proper channels. Fosi defended his track record, noting ongoing upgrades to electricity networks and community engagement efforts.
DA’s Mayor Cilliers Brink defended his administration against Beaumont’s attacks, highlighting ongoing infrastructure improvements and dismissing accusations of neglect. “MMC Themba Fosi has been diligently working on upgrading electricity networks and engaging with communities. This work has been ongoing and not influenced by recent social media campaigns,” Brink stated on X (formerly Twitter).
The dispute also reflects underlying tensions within the coalition government. Beaumont’s critique has been interpreted by some as a prelude to potential changes in the coalition dynamics. DA caucus spokesperson Kwena Moloto suggested that ActionSA’s social media campaign might be a strategic maneuver to justify a possible alliance with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Tshwane.
FF Plus caucus leader Grandi Theunissen called for unity among coalition partners, acknowledging the challenges faced but urging recognition of progress made under the current administration. He warned against the potential instability that could result from shifting coalition alliances.
As ActionSA and the DA continue to clash publicly, the focus remains on addressing Tshwane’s service delivery issues and navigating the complexities of coalition politics. The situation underscores the challenges faced by multi-party governments in managing diverse expectations and maintaining effective governance. The next steps for ActionSA and the DA will likely involve further negotiations and public engagements as they work to resolve service delivery issues and manage internal coalition dynamics.
In other news – Controversial YouTuber Musa Khawula released from prison admist legal drama
Musa Khawula, the provocative YouTuber known for his social media controversies, has reportedly been released from jail after a notable absence from the public eye. Khawula’s arrest, which he claimed was orchestrated since May 30, has captured significant attention and led to widespread speculation about the nature of his legal troubles.
Khawula, who has often stirred the pot with his outspoken views, was detained in connection with a civil lawsuit involving Nozuko Mbalula, the spouse of ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, and her business associate Michelle Perrow. Read More
