Kagiso Lerutla appointed Ekurhuleni City Manager while controversial Floyd Brink returns to Johannesburg

The City of Ekurhuleni has welcomed Mr. Kagiso Michael Lerutla as its new City Manager. A Chartered Accountant with over 13 years of experience in public finance and governance. Lerutla previously served as the city’s Group Chief Financial Officer, leading Ekurhuleni to three consecutive clean audits. Holding a BCompt, BCom (Honours) in Accounting and an MBA. City officials expressed confidence that his leadership will further improve governance and performance across the municipality.

In Johannesburg, the City Council has reappointed Floyd Brink as city manager after months without a permanent municipal administrator. Brink was forced out in December last year when the DA challenged his appointment in the Gauteng High Court, which found it unconstitutional, unlawful, and invalid. Despite the ruling, Brink was rehired by the ANC-led coalition government, competing against ten candidates, including former Johannesburg Property Company chief executive Helen Botes. Brink emerged as the leading candidate with a score of 81 percent, while Botes and Bryne Maduka scored 48 percent each.

At a council meeting on Thursday, Brink’s appointment was confirmed. He returns to the city amid ongoing service delivery challenges, including water and electricity shortages, deteriorating roads, and a growing number of informal settlements. His immediate task includes overseeing preparations for the upcoming G20 summit.

ANC officials praised Brink’s experience and resilience, highlighting his record in senior government positions and his ability to maintain stability during political turbulence. The EFF also expressed confidence in Brink’s leadership, noting his calm and principled approach. Meanwhile, Patriotic Alliance’s Kenny Kunene criticised the DA for previously taking Brink to court, arguing that city officials consistently recognised him as a capable administrator.

The DA abstained from the vote, with Johannesburg DA caucus leader Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku saying the party did not want to be drawn into ANC factional battles. “Our decision to abstain was deliberate and based on principle. The DA makes evidence-based decisions in the best interests of Johannesburg residents, not ANC factions,” she said.