The City of Johannesburg council has reappointed Floyd Brink as city manager following months without the municipality’s top administrator.

Brink was forced out of the position in December last year after the DA in the city took his appointment to the Gauteng High Court, which found it unconstitutional, unlawful, and invalid.

He had been hired by the ANC-led coalition government despite being ordered by the court to vacate his position almost a year ago.

Brink beat 10 other candidates for the position, including controversial former Johannesburg Property Company chief executive Helen Botes.

He was assessed as the leading candidate with a score of 81%, while Botes and Bryne Maduka received the lowest scores with 48% each.

At a council meeting on Thursday, Brink’s appointment was confirmed.

The municipality described Brink’s appointment as a strategic move and a testament to its commitment to robust leadership and effective governance as it continues to advance its developmental agenda, focusing on inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience.

Brink boasts over 22 years of extensive work experience, including 16 years in senior management roles.

According to the city, his diverse professional background encompasses financial management, engineering, and business administration, which it believes positions him as an exceptional leader ready to guide Johannesburg towards sustainable growth and service excellence.

“Dr Brink’s extensive expertise and proven track record of leadership in various sectors make him an invaluable asset to our city. We believe his strategic vision and commitment to service delivery will significantly contribute to realising our city’s vision of a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive metropolis,” said ANC councillor and Corporate and Shared Services MMC Nkosephayo Zungu.

The municipality expected Brink to navigate the complexities of urban governance, optimise service delivery, and foster economic development, all while ensuring that the needs of the Johannesburg community are met.

The municipality views his leadership as pivotal in addressing upcoming challenges and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

Brink holds a Master of Business Administration from MANCOSA and a Bachelor of Commerce degree in financial management from the University of the Free State.

In addition, he has a National Diploma in Engineering and recently completed a PhD qualification, which underscores his unwavering commitment to academic and professional excellence.

A week ago, a special council meeting scheduled to ratify Brink’s appointment was cancelled after the motion was withdrawn, prompting ActionSA to note its deep concern and disappointment over the continued dysfunction that characterises the conduct of the council.

“An extraordinary sitting was called specifically to address a critical governance issue, the ratification of the appointment of a permanent city manager.

“This position is paramount to the effective running of the city, ensuring administrative stability, accountability, and service delivery. Yet, instead of urgency and cooperation, the sitting was dominated by over three hours of caucus breaks, political theatrics, and procedural delays,” the party stated.

Several caucus breaks were called by the ANC, EFF, and the Patriotic Alliance before the motion was withdrawn, almost four hours after the meeting was due to start.

loyiso.sidimba@inl.co.za

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