The City of Tshwane and mayor Nasiphi Moya have requested the Pretoria High Court to dismiss an urgent application by suspended city manager Johann Mettler to overturn his suspension.Both parties argue that Mettler's immediate reinstatement could disrupt municipal operations and create legal uncertainty.

Mettler, suspended during a council meeting with 13 allegations against him, seeks reinstatement to resume his role, but the city claims this would destabilise administration.

Acting manager Musa Khumalo stated the court should not invalidate decisions made since the suspension, as this would affect employees, service providers, and residents.The city also warns that Mettler's application seeks broad relief without specifying particular decisions to overturn, risking legal ambiguity.The case follows a council resolution placing Mettler on precautionary suspension while an investigation proceeds.

Mettler claims the suspension was unlawful due to procedural flaws, while DA candidate Cilliers Brink has joined the legal battle, arguing the council vote was invalid.The court's ruling will determine whether Mettler returns to office while the broader legal dispute continues.