Marcus Moloko
On Thursday, the Johannesburg City Council approved Dr Floyd Brink’s return as City Manager.
His return, a third time in the role, has been met by challenges, as he was previously removed due to a court order that deemed his appointment irregular.
Brink is believed to have close ties to the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a concern for some ANC councillors who fear the appointment could shift power dynamics within the governing coalition.
The ANC-led coalition, which includes the DA, IFP, Patriotic Alliance, and other smaller parties, faces a new test of unity as Brink’s tenure officially begins on November 1, as the city prepares to host the G20 summit.
Brinks’ mandate will include stabilising service delivery in a city facing repeated water shortages, power outages, and infrastructure challenges.
While the DA has distanced itself from endorsing Brink, citing concerns over Brink’s previous tenure and the legal controversies surrounding his earlier appointments, a determined Brink allegedly proposed a city plan that outshone other potential candidates for the city manager role.
Brink left the city in December 2024 after a court judgment found his appointment invalid following an application by the DA.
The DA has criticised the ANC for Brink’s appointment, which comes following months of delays.
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