Dr Mgcini Tshwaku
By Thabo Mosia
Johannesburg – The newly elected ANC Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Dada Morero, has reappointed Dr Mgcini Tshwaku of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety. Alongside Tshwaku, Ennie Makhafola of the EFF has also been reappointed as the MMC for Public Health, reaffirming their roles in key positions within the city’s governance.
In a media release dated 16 August 2024, the EFF Gauteng expressed its support for Morero’s election and welcomed the continuation of Tshwaku and Makhafola in their respective roles. However, the EFF also voiced concerns over the frequent changes in the city’s leadership, stating that “this instability has a negative impact on the City’s administration, governance, planning, monitoring, and ultimately, service delivery.”
The EFF highlighted the importance of a collective effort in governance, emphasizing that the responsibility for service delivery should not fall solely on the Executive Mayor. Instead, the party insists that the Mayoral Committee, Municipal Officials, and all organizations within the Council should work together to build a city that effectively serves its residents. The party is strongly opposed to the notion of pursuing power without a clear plan to provide services to the people of Johannesburg.
Despite the challenges posed by political instability, the EFF remains committed to establishing a stable and competent government. The party’s leadership in Public Safety and Public Health under Tshwaku and Makhafola has reportedly been instrumental in addressing the basic needs of Johannesburg’s residents. The EFF has expressed confidence in their continued ability to lead their departments effectively.
Morero’s recent election marks his return to the mayoral office after briefly holding the position in 2022. He was elected during the 30th extraordinary council meeting held on 16 August 2024, securing 189 votes against DA’s Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, who received 60 votes. His election follows the resignation of Kabelo Gwamanda, the Al Jama-ah councillor who had faced mounting pressure and questions about his leadership abilities.
Gwamanda’s resignation was a result of ongoing negotiations within the coalition that governs Johannesburg, which includes ActionSA and the ANC. His tenure was plagued by accusations of failing to deliver on key promises and managing the city’s challenges effectively, leading to a loss of confidence among coalition partners and opposition parties alike.
In his victory speech, Morero acknowledged the significant challenges facing Johannesburg, particularly in the areas of service delivery and infrastructure. He called for a united effort from all political organizations within the council to address these issues and improve the lives of Johannesburg’s residents. Speaker of Council Margaret Arnolds also expressed her confidence in Morero’s leadership, highlighting the need for collaboration in overcoming the city’s challenges.
The newly appointed mayoral committee reflects a blend of experience and continuity, with key figures like Tshwaku, Makhafola, and former mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, who has been appointed as the MMC for Community Development, playing pivotal roles. Additionally, the Patriotic Alliance’s Kenny Kunene has returned as the MMC for Transport, further solidifying the coalition’s approach to governance in Johannesburg.
The resignation of AIC’s Margaret Arnolds as Speaker of the Johannesburg Council, following her appointment as the MMC for Finance, has also led to changes in the council’s leadership. ActionSA is expected to take over the legislature and the speaker position, ensuring a balanced representation of the coalition partners in the city’s administration.
The EFF, while supportive of Morero’s election, continues to advocate for a governance model that prioritizes the needs of Johannesburg’s residents. The party’s focus remains on addressing systemic issues related to electricity, water, sanitation, environmental management, and poverty through state-led industrial development and investment in infrastructure.
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