ANC Tshwane caucus leader Eugene Modise has been elected unopposed as the new deputy mayor of the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality.

Modise was nominated by his party during a council meeting today, and faced no challengers.

This follows the newly formed coalition between the ANC, EFF, ActionSA, and smaller parties.

Modise, who is also the MMC for finance, fills the position after ActionSA’s Dr Nasiphi Moya resigned. Moya had earlier been elected mayor following the ousting of DA mayor Cilliers Brink.

Council Speaker Mncedi Ndzwana noted that with only one candidate nominated, there was no need for a secret ballot. “Honourable councillors, schedule 3, item 5 of the Municipal Structures Act [117 of 1998] dictates that where there is only one candidate nominated, I must declare that candidate elected. I now, in terms of this section, declare Eugene Modise as the new deputy mayor of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan.”

‘No fear or intimidation’

In his acceptance speech, Modise said he understood the responsibilities of the role and would not allow fear or intimidation to hinder his duties.

“I will not allow fear nor intimidation to stand in the way of performing my functions and responsibilities,” he said.

Modise also emphasised a commitment to service delivery without prejudice. “I refuse to wear the lenses of racism when serving the residents of Tshwane or carry a pinch of negativity in fulfilling the mandate given to me.”

He called on all council members, regardless of political affiliation, to work together for the benefit of residents. “Tshwane prides itself on education, and our conduct must reflect that reality. I call on all councillors to love one another so we can serve our citizens with love.”

Modise pledged to improve working conditions for municipal employees and ensure that capital projects are supported and monitored. “We must provide essential services to residents, ensure access to healthcare, and turn white elephant projects into beneficial ones.”

He also stressed the need for better management of Tshwane’s landfill sites. “We cannot be a capital city that fails to manage refuse and its own landfill sites,” Modise concluded.

ANC Regional Chairperson Eugene Modise has been voted as the new City Of Tshwane Deputy Mayor uncontested. ⚫️🟢🟡 pic.twitter.com/8ZZiVTZFkO

— Toko Masemola (@TokoMasemola) October 18, 2024