Gang Signs and Threats in Cape Town Council

• Making hand signs associated with the 28s and 27s gangs,
• Showing a middle finger directed at opposition councillors,
• Performing a throat-slitting gesture, twice, in a manner suggestive of a threat to the lives of fellow councillors.

These actions are wholly unacceptable and stand in direct violation of both the Code of Conduct for Councillors and the Rules of Order for Council.

The rules clearly state that councillors must:

• Act in good faith and in a manner that upholds the credibility and integrity of the municipality;
• Refrain from any behaviour that disrupts order or brings the Council into disrepute;
• Avoid conduct that threatens violence or undermines the dignity and decorum of Council proceedings.

Councillors are elected to serve their communities with professionalism, dignity, and integrity. The City of Cape Town faces serious challenges, including crime and extortion. It is deeply alarming that a senior councillor, who also chairs a sub-council, would display behaviour that not only disrespects the chamber but also evokes the violence that so many of our residents are working to escape.

The GOOD Party has therefore requested:

• A full investigation in terms of Section 16 of the Code of Conduct for Councillors;
• That appropriate disciplinary proceedings be initiated without delay.

We call on the Speaker and the City to act swiftly and decisively. Failure to do so will send a dangerous message that intimidation, gang symbolism, and threats have a place in democratic governance.