By Ekurhuleni News Reporter
ActionSA has voiced strong disappointment over the Inkatha Freedom Party’s (IFP) unexpected withdrawal of a motion of no confidence against Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Speaker of Council, Clir Nthabiseng Tshivhenga, in the City of Ekurhuleni. The motion was set to be debated in council on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
In a statement released by ActionSA’s City of Ekurhuleni Caucus Leader, Siyanda Makhubo, the party expressed frustration over the IFP’s decision, describing it as unjustified given Clir Tshivhenga’s controversial tenure.
Makhubo highlighted that under Tshivhenga’s leadership, multiple council meetings had descended into chaos, with councillors reportedly being assaulted by members of her caucus. He further cited a scathing report from the bipartisan Ethics Committee, which found Tshivhenga guilty of failing to take disciplinary action against councillors from her own party. The committee recommended that she issue a formal apology in council and impose fines on those responsible for misconduct.
“During times of political uncertainty and shifting council politics, municipal legislatures must prioritize governance and accountability,” said Makhubo.
Despite its disappointment, ActionSA acknowledged the IFP as an independent political party with which it has previously worked well. The party has called for all council members to return to negotiations to address the governance challenges that have marked Tshivhenga’s tenure as Speaker.
The withdrawal of the motion raises questions about the political dynamics within the City of Ekurhuleni’s council and whether opposition parties can find common ground to restore stability. Meanwhile, ActionSA remains committed to ensuring accountability within the city’s leadership.
