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Political Turmoil in Ekurhuleni as Parties Seek to Oust Mayor

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1 month ago

March 28, 2024

As tensions rise in Ekurhuleni, political parties are gearing up for a new bid to oust Ekurhuleni Mayor Sivuyile Ngodwana during the monthly council meeting scheduled for March 28 at the Germiston chambers.

In a complex political landscape, the ANC, DA, and other smaller parties previously indicated their support for a motion against the mayor. However, the EFF and its political alliance have staunchly opposed the motion of no confidence.

This upcoming attempt marks the third effort to remove Ngodwana from his position, which ActionSA spearheaded. On March 12, the previous effort saw the ANC proposing an amendment to the motion, suggesting that the mayoral position be awarded to the party with the most council seats. This proposition faced opposition from the EFF.

The proposal for council dissolution, put forward by DA caucus leader Tania Campbell, further complicates the situation, potentially sending voters back to the ballot box.

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Despite the efforts, the motion to remove the mayor faced a setback during the previous council meeting. Speaker Nthabiseng Tshivhenga deferred the vote following a lengthy debate, citing the need for more time to seek legal opinion on amendments to the motion.

In preparation for the third attempt, the ANC has withdrawn its proposed amendment, signalling a united front in pursuing the mayor’s removal.

Thabang Mashiane, Media Liaison Officer for ANC in Ekurhuleni, emphasised the party’s commitment to effecting change. “The ultimate strategic posture remains. That is to remove the mayor. And we remain firm in our position to see change. Change must and will happen,” said Mashiane.

The ANC Youth League in Ekurhuleni has also voiced criticism regarding its party’s relationship with the EFF, particularly following the removal of Campbell. During the previous council meeting, members of the ANC Youth League protested outside the chambers, calling for the mayor’s removal and the ousting of Ekurhuleni finance MMC, the EFF’s Nkululeko Dunga.

Source: Political parties gear up for new bid to oust mayor

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