Joburg City Council
By Thabo Mosia
The Joburg City Council has officially ratified the appointment of Tshepo Makola as the acting city manager, following an extraordinary council meeting held on Friday. 
This decision comes in the wake of the Johannesburg High Court’s ruling that declared the 2023 appointment of former city manager, Floyd Brink, unlawful.  Makola, who has been serving as the city’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), was informally appointed to the acting position by Mayor Dada Morero in December 2024. His formal ratification by the council ensures compliance with the Municipal Systems Act, which mandates that such appointments receive council approval.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) raised concerns regarding the procedural aspects of Makola’s appointment, highlighting that he had assumed the role prior to obtaining formal council approval. DA Johannesburg regional leader, Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, emphasised the importance of adhering to legal processes, stating, “The court ruling agreeing with the DA underscores the importance of adhering to principles of our Constitution and the processes governed by our Municipal Systems Act.”  Despite these concerns, Kayser-Echeozonjoku expressed hope that Makola’s leadership would stabilise service delivery during this transitional period.
In contrast, African National Congress (ANC) councillor and Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Group Corporate and Shared Services, Loyiso Masuku, defended the mayor’s actions. Masuku referenced council delegations approved in June 2013, stating that the appointment of an acting city manager is the responsibility of the council but can be delegated to the mayor. She added that if any caucus feels the need to review these delegations, they are welcome to engage through the appropriate channels. 
Other political parties also weighed in on the appointment. African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) councillor Ronald Harris welcomed Makola’s appointment but cautioned against potential pitfalls, advising him to avoid politicising the city manager’s office and to hold individuals accountable for misusing public funds.  Meanwhile, ActionSA expressed a desire for the city manager position to be filled permanently within three months, underscoring the need for an impartial leader to address pressing issues such as water and electricity supply. 
Makola’s tenure as acting city manager is set for an initial period of three months, during which the city will commence its recruitment process for a permanent appointee. His extensive experience within the city’s administration, including roles as executive director of emergency services management and city director, positions him well to navigate the challenges ahead.
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