In his recent interview with Newzroom Africa, former Executive Mayor Randall Williams of Tshwane addressed several pressing issues surrounding his abrupt removal and ongoing challenges in the city. He revealed that his dismissal was communicated through a virtual meeting led by DA leaders John Steenhuisen and Solly Msimanga, asserting that the decision was made by the Federal Executive.
Williams strongly disputed claims made by former Executive Mayor Brink regarding the Hammanskraal water crisis, attributing significant obstacles to corruption in the second phase of the water project. He explained that Magalies Water lacks the capacity to fully resolve the water shortage in Hammanskraal, only providing a partial solution that still leaves many residents without reliable access. He warned that the Rooiwal water treatment process continues to risk contamination of local water sources, if the Hammanskraal situation remains unresolved.
He also countered assertions about Tshwane’s financial health, contrary to his successors’ statements. Williams criticised the DA for disregarding the support from Multi-Party Charter for South Africa coalition leaders who had expressed support for his continuation as mayor. Notably, he claimed his Chief of Staff was directed to draft a resignation letter on his behalf, which was approved by Hellen Zille, DA’s Federal Executive Chairperson.
Moreover, Williams accused Msimanga of being dishonest with the residents regarding the circumstances of his resignation, suggesting that the DA attempted to manipulate the narrative by backdating the resignation letter, a move that opposition parties in the council did not accept. His insights shed light on the complexities of political dynamics within the city of Tshwane and the DA-led coalition and the pressing service delivery challenges facing Tshwane.
Photo source: Jacques Naude/ Independent Newspaper
Reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ge7_yzBRPh0
