ActionSA criticizes the Democratic Alliance for allegedly prioritizing services to white residents over other racial groups in Tshwane, South Africa

ActionSA criticizes the Democratic Alliance for allegedly prioritizing services to white residents over other racial groups in Tshwane, South Africa

In a surprising twist, former Tshwane mayor Randall Williams has stirred the political landscape with bold allegations about the Democratic Alliance (DA) and its approach to service delivery.

Speaking at a recent media briefing, Williams claimed that during his time in office, the DA instructed him to prioritize service delivery based on racial lines, favoring white residents in the City of Tshwane.

This has set off a firestorm of debate and criticism, with ActionSA being one of the loudest voices condemning the DA’s alleged practices.

Racial Bias in Service Delivery?

Williams, who served as mayor from October 2020 to 2023, disclosed that he was directed to pass on service complaints from white residents to Cilliers Brink, the recently ousted mayor and DA parliament member at the time.

This, he claims, occurred despite Brink not even being a councillor when the directive was given.

The allegation has sparked significant outrage, particularly as it underscores a troubling trend of racial bias in how services are delivered across Tshwane.

A viral post on social media has fueled the fire, with users expressing shock at the blatant favoritism alleged by Williams.

The post highlights a specific instance from July 2022, when Williams claims the DA issued the instruction, raising questions about transparency and fairness within the party’s governance.

ActionSA Calls Out Discrimination

In response to these revelations, ActionSA has voiced strong opposition to what they describe as discriminatory practices by the DA.

Jackie Mathabathe, ActionSA’s caucus leader in Tshwane, referred to these claims as a vindication of her party’s stance.

She cited market research data showing that service delivery improvements were felt more strongly in suburban areas (64%) than in townships (24%), reinforcing the notion of racial inequality in municipal services.

Mathabathe emphasized that ActionSA has consistently pushed for fair and equitable service delivery for all residents, regardless of race.

She also pointed out that her party’s withdrawal from the DA-led coalition government was largely due to concerns over these kinds of alleged discriminatory actions.

The Search for a New Mayor

With the recent ousting of Mayor Cilliers Brink on September 26, the council is now tasked with electing a new leader for the city.

ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has thrown his party’s support behind current deputy mayor Nasiphi Moya, while the ANC is reportedly backing Kgosi Maepa.

The coming days will reveal which direction the council will take and whether ActionSA’s partnership with the ANC will shape the future leadership of Tshwane.

Despite the uncertainty, Mashaba has indicated that his party would back an ANC candidate if necessary, signaling a potential shift in political alliances.

All eyes are now on the council as Tshwane braces for yet another chapter in its turbulent political saga.