The Democratic Alliance (DA) on Monday vowed that it would get down to work and eradicate what it called the jobs-for-pals culture prevalent in many muncipalities.

DA Gauteng leader John Moodey said in a statement that “senior positions, particularly those of municipal managers and heads of departments, in the DA-led administrations of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Mogale City will not be given to party members, but will be open to transparent recruitment processes ensuring that only the most competent individuals are employed to move these cities forward”.

The DA, in coalition with smaller parties, took over the running of various municipalities in Gauteng, including the key metros of Johannesburg and Tshwane, from the African National Congress (ANC).

Moodey said the days of “cadre deployment” were gone and the DA was committed to appointing “suitably qualified and competent people into positions who are fit for purpose and can fulfil the responsibilities of the office that they carry”.

The appointments, he said, would be conducted in an open, transparent manner that would be “subject to public scrutiny.”

Moodey said this move was critical to ensure that “residents receive quality services, on time and in a dignified manner”.