PRETORIA, Gauteng — The Democratic Alliance (DA) has escalated its demands for a full investigation into Tshwane water tanker spending, targeting nearly R800 million in municipal contracts. Leading the political push, DA Tshwane mayoral candidate Cilliers Brink picketed outside the office of Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, alleging that a “water tanker mafia” is exploiting residents while siphoning taxpayer funds without delivering essential services.
During the protest, Brink corrected initial reports regarding the financial scale of the issue, clarifying that the City of Tshwane spent nearly R800 million—not R80 million—on water tankers in the past financial year. This represents a staggering 455% increase in expenditure. According to Brink, R95 million was paid to Nomakhuwa Trading and Projects, and R125 million went to M. Rams Enterprises. Furthermore, he alleged that R31.7 million was paid to companies linked to ANC deputy mayor Eugene Modise, who also serves as the head of finance in Mayor Nasiphi Moya’s administration. Brink also named ANC regional treasurer Rhulani James Shelenge in connection with the allegations.
Addressing claims of direct political links, Brink noted that the connections between the ANC politicians and the companies were initially drawn by investigative journalists, including the Sunday Times. However, he maintained that the DA is “joining the dots” based on evidence showing that payments were made without purchase orders or proof that water was actually delivered. Brink specifically attacked Modise’s credibility, alleging he previously failed to disclose interests in a security company benefiting from municipal contracts, which reportedly resulted in a two-month salary dock.
The DA argues that the massive expenditure on contracted services comes at the direct expense of infrastructure development. Brink stated that if even half of the funds had been invested in replacing pipes, fixing valves, and completing the Hammanskraal clean water project, the city would not be facing 41% water losses. Instead, residents in Hammanskraal, Ekangala, and Mabopane are forced to rely on expensive tankers, often waiting until midnight for water. Brink also highlighted the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Plant, which pollutes the Apies River and prevents water purification downstream at Temba.
When questioned about whether the campaign is a political stunt, Brink pointed to similar infrastructure and water issues in Durban. He clarified that the DA was not forced to take down billboards in Durban regarding water tanker issues; rather, the advertising company withdrew them. He challenged the current Durban mayor to answer to DA mayoral candidate Haniff Hoosen regarding the matter, maintaining that the party is unafraid to take on the “water tanker mafia” associated with the ANC and proxy parties like ActionSA.
The interview also touched upon a controversial recent raid led by Brink on a suspected hijacked house in Pretoria. Defending the operation, Brink denied claims that it was an illegal vigilante raid. He insisted that Tshwane Metro Police were present and even arrested a suspect in possession of drugs. Brink defended his collaboration with private and community security, praising community patrollers in areas like Lynwood, and Mamelodi. He argued that with the South African Police Service lacking resources, community involvement is essential and operates strictly within the ambit of the law.
