Eugene Modise elected as Tshwane’s new deputy mayor

Modise, who is also the party’s caucus chair, was elected during a special council sitting on Friday.

His election fills the vacancy left by ActionSA councillor Nasiphi Moya, who was elected as mayor a week ago.

Moya was promoted from deputy mayor to mayor through an agreement involving the ANC, ActionSA and EFF after the previous mayor, Cilliers Brink, was removed through a motion of no confidence.

Nearly ten DA councillors, including Brink, were absent from the sitting, reportedly due to leave or illness.

Tshwane Council Speaker Mncedi Ndzwanana made the official announcement.

"Honourable councillors, schedule 3, item 5 of the Municipal Structures Act 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 executive mayor of the City of Tshwane Metro," said Ndzwanana.

Modise also serves as MMC for Finance in the capital city.

During his acceptance speech, he vowed to respect the weight of his new position. 

"I will not allow fear or intimidation to stand in my way when executing my functions and responsibilities,” Modise said. 

“I refuse to harbour any bitterness in my God-given soul during service delivery interactions with the wonderful people of the capital city.

“I arrogantly refuse to wear the lenses of racism when serving the residents of Jacaranda City," Modise added.

He further committed to endorsing the positive projects left by the previous executive while being intolerant of "irrational, irrelevant, and irresponsible" decisions.

"Let us strive to make the working environment friendly, safe, and conducive for all our employees. They are our critical and crucial assets," said Modise.

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