Brink Ordered To Vacate His Position At City Of Joburg

The recent ruling by the High Court in Johannesburg has sparked significant political and legal developments in the City of Johannesburg. The court declared the re-appointment of City Manager Floyd Brink unlawful, unconstitutional, and invalid. This decision followed a legal challenge brought by the Democratic Alliance DA, which argued that Brink's reappointment was procedurally flawed.

Despite the ruling, Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has sought to reassure residents, emphasizing that his administration will take steps to ensure that the functioning of the city's government remains uninterrupted. Morero's assurances come in light of the potential challenges the city may face during the transition to a new City Manager or the appointment of an acting manager.

The courts decision reinforces a previous ruling from last year, which had set aside Brinks permanent appointment. In response to that, Brink was reinstated after a council vote, but this action was contested by the DA. The DA argued that Brinks appointment had not followed proper procedures and was, therefore, invalid. The court agreed with the DAs position, further declaring that any employment or performance contract signed with Brink was now void.

The ruling also saw the DA being awarded costs, underscoring the party's success in challenging what they described as "unconstitutional conduct" in the city's governance. Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjok, the DA's Joburg Caucus Leader, expressed satisfaction with the judgment, reaffirming the party's stance that the "dooms day coalition" behind Brink's reappointment would not be allowed to stand.

This decision represents a significant setback for Brink and the coalition that supported his reappointment, and it will likely have lasting political implications for the leadership of Johannesburg as the search for a new City Manager or acting manager progresses.