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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg strongly condemns the conduct of Executive Mayor Dada Morero where he is seen in videos appearing to mobilise branches of the African National Congress (ANC) to protest in support of the R10 billion unfunded Politically Facilitated Agreement (PFA) with the South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU).

These calls reportedly target the DA and its councillors after we served the City of Johannesburg with legal papers concerning the inclusion of the PFA in the municipal budget process.

This conduct is deeply irresponsible.

It is particularly concerning given that correspondence from the Presidential Working Group on Johannesburg reportedly cautioned the City Manager against the R10 billion PFA and recommended that further analysis be undertaken before any commitments relating to the PFA proceed.

A sitting Executive Mayor mobilising his own party structures to protest against decisions within his own administration is reckless and undermines the stability of governance in Johannesburg.

Even more troubling is the possibility that the agreement was signed before being properly brought before Council and before the required financial and legal analyses were completed, raising serious concerns about potential violations of the Municipal Finance Management Act.

Such conduct may constitute serious breaches of governance standards, including potential violations of the Constitution and the Executive Code of Conduct. It also raises questions about whether the Mayor is attempting to use political mobilisation to intimidate those who are exercising their legal right to challenge decisions that may place the City’s finances at risk.

The DA is currently studying the footage and will consider all available options. Of particular concern is the possibility that these statements could amount to the incitement of protest action that may endanger councillors and undermine democratic processes within Council.

Johannesburg residents deserve leadership that protects the rule of law, safeguards public finances, and prioritises service delivery over political theatrics.

We will not be intimidated for standing up for residents and ensuring that every decision taken by the City is lawful, financially responsible, and in the best interests of the people of Johannesburg.

Issued by Cllr Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku - DA Johannesburg Caucus Leader