Mayor Amad resigns before motion of no confidence
In just two and a half months after taking office, councillor Thapelo Amad has resigned as the executive mayor of Johannesburg. His exit comes just hours before facing a motion of no confidence.
Councillor Amad, representing the Muslim minority political party, Al Jama-ah, was elected through the assistance of the African National Congress (ANC) and the Economic Freedom Fighter’s (EFF) partnership a few months earlier.
Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, April 24, Gauteng premier and ANC provincial chairperson Panyaza Lesufi thanked Councillor Amad for his selfless leadership skills.
“Following intense consultation and discussions we have accepted the resignation of our executive mayor, Thapelo Amad.”
Amad replaced Democratic Alliance’s Councillor Mpho Maphalatse who was outsted through a motion of no confidence in January.
Political parties that backed Amad started calling for his resignation after a television interview went viral, where he revealed his involvement in securing a R9.5 billion loan for the city.
A constant breakdown in multi party coalition running the city of Johannesburg leaves the metro in political turmoil amid an electric crisis that has pummeled the local economy and requires urgent attention.
The DA welcomes the resignation of Thapelo Amad and announces Dr Phalatse as their preferred candidate for Mayoral election.
