By Mpho Moloi
Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero’s recent decision to remove Councillor Kabelo Gwamanda from his position as Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development has sparked controversy and criticism from coalition partners. The dismissal, executed without prior consultation, has been labelled as unilateral and in bad faith by Al Jama-ah, the political party to which Gwamanda belongs.
On Sunday, Mayor Morero announced the termination of Gwamanda’s role and appointed Councillor Teboho Nkonkou as the new MMC for Community Development. This move comes amid ongoing legal proceedings against Gwamanda, who faces allegations of defrauding individuals through a funeral policy scam dating back to 2011. 
Thapelo Amad, Gauteng leader of Al Jama-ah, expressed dismay over the lack of communication regarding Gwamanda’s dismissal. He stated that coalition partners were still deliberating on the matter at the provincial level and had not reached a consensus. “There were never further consultations between us and the ANC [African National Congress] because matters were still being ventilated, so we hadn’t concluded that process,” Amad remarked. He further criticised the mayor’s decision as premature, suggesting that it would have been prudent to await the outcome of the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) investigation before taking such action.
Despite the allegations, Al Jama-ah has affirmed its support for Gwamanda, who has now been relegated to the status of an ordinary proportional representation (PR) councillor. Amad emphasised the principle of presumption of innocence, stating, “If the court of law finds him guilty, that’s when the party will take that drastic decision.” He also dismissed calls from opposition parties, such as ActionSA, for Gwamanda’s removal as a councillor, labelling them as opportunistic.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has also weighed in on the issue, calling for a thorough investigation into all agreements and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) signed by Gwamanda during his tenure as both Mayor and MMC for Community Development. DA caucus leader Belinda Keyser Echeozonjoku highlighted concerns over potential misconduct, particularly regarding the controversial decision to rename Sandton Drive to Leila Khaled Drive. The DA has demanded a forensic investigation into the signatures collected in support of this renaming, alleging possible improprieties. 
While the DA has welcomed Gwamanda’s removal, it has expressed reservations about his successor, Councillor Teboho Nkonkou of the Patriotic Alliance. The DA has rejected Nkonkou’s appointment, citing his past divisive statements in council, which they argue are contrary to the values of social cohesion and inclusivity required for the role. The DA stated, “The appointment of Cllr Teboho Nkonkou as the new MMC for Community Development is, however, unfortunate, and we reject this appointment. Cllr Nkonkou is known for his racist remarks in council, this in a country as diverse as ours.” 
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
_______________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate