In a recent turn of events that’s caught everyone’s attention, Action SA leader Herman Mashaba has responded fiercely to Gareth Cliff’s public declaration of not paying municipal rates following the removal of Tshwane mayor Cilliers Brink.
The whole situation escalated quickly, drawing both local political tension and social media drama.
Gareth Cliff’s Outrage and Mashaba’s Response
Gareth Cliff, a well-known podcaster and commentator, didn’t hold back after Brink’s dismissal, which came after a motion of no confidence filed by the ANC, a move backed by Mashaba’s party.
Cliff tweeted his displeasure, suggesting he would stop paying rates and taxes to what he called a “sh*t-show of a municipality.”
This bold statement certainly stirred the pot.
In a direct rebuttal, Mashaba pointedly remarked on social media about the implications of Cliff’s comments, questioning whether black and colored residents of Cape Town should also stop paying rates to a municipality he claims is unresponsive.
He provocatively asked if those who contributed to building the country through forced labor should demand reparations, emphasizing that building a nation requires fairness and consistency.
Tensions Escalate on Social Media
Not one to back down, Mashaba tweeted further about Cliff, insisting that he needs to learn a lesson from the Tshwane municipality.
He reminded Cliff that the current political climate is not governed by the coercion and brutality of the past.
Mashaba’s remarks serve as a reminder of the serious political and social history that continues to influence discussions today.
He also asserted that in 2024, local authorities will uphold the democratic laws that Cliff seems to disregard, a clear jab at the podcaster’s attitude towards municipal governance.
The Consequences of Not Paying Your Rates
While the political banter is entertaining, there’s a serious side to the issue.
If you’re a property owner in South Africa, ignoring your rates can lead to some hefty consequences.
Berry Everitt from Chas Everitt International explained that failing to pay property rates could result in local authorities obtaining a court judgment against you.
Moreover, if you find yourself in debt, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) can even attach your property if you’re behind on income tax payments.
The penalties for non-payment can escalate quickly, potentially costing you much more than the original debt.
Even if you consider selling your home to escape the financial burden, it’s not that simple.
Municipalities won’t issue clearance certificates, and SARS will take a cut from the profit of your sale.
It’s a tangled web of legal and financial responsibilities that every homeowner must navigate carefully.
What Lies Ahead?
As the drama unfolds, it’s clear that this confrontation has stirred more than just personal grievances.
The clash between Mashaba and Cliff highlights the ongoing tensions in South African politics and the serious responsibilities of citizenship.
It raises critical questions about governance, accountability, and the community’s role in shaping their local landscape.
What happens next could set important precedents for how local leaders engage with their constituents in the future.
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