The coalition government in Tshwane led by the African National Congress and Economic Freedom Fighters faces renewed criticism after the Gauteng High Court struck down the controversial city cleansing levy, with opposition leaders now demanding accountability for millions in wasted public money.

The court’s decision came after AfriForum challenged the R194 monthly levy imposed on ratepayers, arguing it lacked policy justification and legal foundation. In a scathing judgment, the court found that the metro had submitted voluminous but largely irrelevant documentation and hired a costly team of three advocates, yet failed to present any compelling reason for the tax. The ruling not only nullified the levy but also exposed what the judge described as “legal overreach” on the part of the municipality.

Cilliers Brink, Democratic Alliance caucus leader in Tshwane, condemned the coalition’s actions, stating that city leadership appeared “more interested in defending a botched tax than fixing Tshwane’s finances.” Brink has now called on the City Manager to investigate whether mayoral committee members or politicians, including EFF council leader, Obakeng Ramabodu, can be held personally liable for the legal costs incurred during the failed court fight.

The DA argues that the legal battle has further strained the city’s already precarious finances and serves as yet another example of poor governance under the current coalition. With the city facing rising service delivery challenges and mounting budget pressures, residents are left to foot the bill for missteps at the top. For many in Tshwane, the court’s ruling is a sharp reminder of the need for transparent, accountable management of public funds, and the growing price of political infighting at municipal level.