Malema – Tensions are rising within the Tshwane coalition government as disagreements between the African National Congress (ANC) and ActionSA continue to escalate over the future of city manager Johann Mettler. At the center of the controversy is Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema, who has issued a stark warning: the political stability of the coalition could unravel if ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba does not show humility.
Speaking on EWN’s Politricking podcast, Malema addressed the ongoing power struggle, blaming Mashaba’s “arrogance” for threatening the cohesion of the fragile coalition.
“The problem is not the ANC this time around,” said Malema. “The problem is Herman, whose party has fewer numbers than the ANC. He is behaving like he has power. Ego is what is going to kill these people’s political careers.”
The rift between the ANC and ActionSA stems from Mettler’s continued presence in office, which the ANC views as illegitimate due to what it claims was an irregular appointment process. While the ANC is pressing for Mettler’s removal, the city’s executive mayor and ActionSA member, Nasiphi Moya, has refused to comply with these demands.
Malema Urges Mashaba to Find Common Ground
In his interview, Malema called on Mashaba to de-escalate tensions by adopting a more collaborative approach. According to the EFF leader, ActionSA’s refusal to address ANC concerns is not only disrespectful to its coalition partner but also politically reckless.
“Humble yourself,” Malema said in a direct message to Mashaba. “They are not saying they don’t want ActionSA. They’re saying they have a problem with this municipal manager. They put their facts on the table. Listen to them, okay, agree, and then start a process jointly—collectively—to come up with a city manager.”
Malema’s statement reflects a growing concern among political analysts and coalition insiders that the unity of the multi-party government in Tshwane is becoming increasingly fragile. Without open dialogue and mutual respect, Malema suggests, the alliance could soon fall apart.
The political drama surrounding Mettler’s tenure is just the latest flashpoint in a series of clashes that have plagued coalition governance in several South African municipalities. As parties struggle to align their priorities and values, leaders like Malema are advocating for improved communication and compromise to maintain stability.
Malema’s intervention is significant. The EFF holds a powerful position in several municipal coalitions and often plays the role of kingmaker. His comments carry weight not only within Tshwane but also across other regions where political partnerships are similarly strained.
This is not the first time Malema has spoken out about the difficulties of coalition governments. In past interviews and public speeches, he has emphasized the need for structured negotiations and equitable power-sharing among political partners.
“Coalition governments are fragile by nature,” Malema has said previously. “They only work when every partner understands they are not the majority and acts in good faith to govern in the public interest.”
In the case of Tshwane, Malema fears that the coalition may be heading toward collapse unless urgent steps are taken to address grievances and reestablish a shared governance framework.
The ongoing leadership dispute comes at a time when the City of Tshwane is already grappling with critical service delivery issues, budgetary constraints, and rising public dissatisfaction. Any collapse of the coalition could lead to political instability and further disruptions to essential services, worsening the lives of residents.
For voters and political observers alike, Malema’s warning serves as a call for responsibility. Coalition partners must put aside personal ambition and party politics to prioritize the needs of the people they serve.
As the 2026 local elections draw nearer, Malema’s influence within South African politics continues to grow. His ability to mediate disputes and influence the direction of coalition governments positions him as a key player in the country’s evolving political landscape.
In Tshwane, his message to Mashaba and ActionSA could be pivotal. Whether it leads to compromise or further conflict will depend on how coalition partners respond in the coming weeks.
Malema has once again positioned himself as both a critic and a mediator in South Africa’s complex coalition politics. His warning to Herman Mashaba may be more than political rhetoric—it could be the difference between a functioning local government and yet another coalition collapse.
Source- EWN
