A Democratic Alliance (DA) councillor has raised serious concerns over the alleged reckless behavior of Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s motorcade, which reportedly drove on the wrong side of the N9 provincial road in Midrand, causing disruptions and potential safety hazards.
The councillor, who witnessed the incident, claims the convoy traveled against traffic flow, forcing multiple vehicles off the road. According to the account, drivers were left startled and confused by the motorcade’s apparent disregard for traffic rules. “The scene was alarming. The convoy acted as if the road belonged to them, driving carelessly into oncoming traffic. Cars had to swerve to avoid collisions,” the councillor said.
Our Deputy President driving on the wrong side of the road from his house. Illigal back gate of the Waterfall Equestrian Estate. @Our_DA @DAGauteng @DA_JHB @eNCA @MidrandReporter who does he think he is???? @helenzille @jsteenhuisen pic.twitter.com/CzZInDF8RN
— Cllr. Annette Deppe (@annettedeppe) April 8, 2025
The alleged incident, which occurred during peak traffic hours, has reignited criticism over the perceived entitlement of government officials and the use of blue-light convoys for VIPs. “No one, regardless of their position, should be above the law. This behavior is unacceptable,” the councillor added.
So far, the Deputy President’s office has not responded to the allegations. However, the councillor has called for an immediate investigation, stressing that public safety should take priority. “This is more than just a traffic violation—it’s a matter of lives at risk. Ordinary South Africans are expected to follow road rules, and government officials should be held to the same standard.”
The DA is reportedly preparing to lodge a formal complaint with the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport regarding the conduct of VIP security personnel. Unverified videos and photos of the alleged incident have surfaced on social media, though their authenticity remains unclear.
This is not the first time Deputy President Mashatile’s motorcade has faced scrutiny. In 2023, his bodyguards were criticized after footage emerged showing them allegedly assaulting motorists on a Johannesburg highway.
The councillor emphasized that such incidents should not become normalized. “Public trust in government is already fragile. When those in power flout the law, it only widens the divide between leaders and the people they serve.”