By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The City of Tshwane manager Johann Mettler has been given seven days to explain why he should not be placed on precautionary suspension.
Mettler is facing allegations of financial misconduct, maladministration and gross dereliction.
Tshwane Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya tabled a report before council on Thursday, recommending that the allegations be investigated.
The complaint penned by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) against Mettler contains allegations relating to procurement processes, labour disputes, appointments of senior officials and governance failures. It also refers to findings by oversight institutions, including the Public Protector and the Auditor-General.
Among the issues raised are allegations relating to irregular expenditure, the implementation of lifestyle audits, disciplinary action against municipal employees and the handling of procurement matters within the city.
On 31 March 2026, the Public Protector (PP) released a report finding there were irregularities in the appointment of Moshema Mosia to the position of Tshwane’s chief of Emergency Services.
The PP’s report found, among other things, that the position was not properly advertised with the qualification requirements written ambiguously.
The report also found that the Selection Panel also failed to conduct background and reference checks of candidates, as required by legislation.
Mettler, as the chairperson of the Selection Panel, was found particularly culpable by the PP, with the report noting, “he failed to complete the report on the outcome of the screening process before the interviews took place, contrary to Regulation 14(2) of the 2014 Regulation”.
He is also accused of suppressing a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) report relating to the controversial Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works upgrade tender.
Moya said, in accordance with the rules governing Council proceedings, it would be inappropriate to comment on the findings or recommendations of either report while the matter is under investigation.
“The administration remains focused on delivering reliable services, maintaining the City’s financial stability, accelerating infrastructure investment and improving the quality of life of all those who live in our capital city, added Moya.”
DA Tshwane mayoral candidate Cilliers Brink said efforts to suspend Mettler were politically motivated and aimed at removing a senior official who had resisted irregular procurement practices and pursued disciplinary action against officials implicated in corruption.