The incoming mayor of Joburg, Thapelo Amad.
Gallo Images/Sharon Seretlo
Unity with the purpose of providing services to the residents of Johannesburg was the subject of the acceptance speech given on Friday by the new mayor, Thapelo Amad.
The Al Jama-ah politician was chosen to replace Mpho Phalatse on Friday afternoon.
Its leadership was proposed by the opposition parties, along with another candidate, Margaret Arnolds, of the African Independent Congress (AIC).
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said the ANC realized it was crucial to bring coalition partners, and especially minority parties, into leadership positions.
In his acceptance speech, Amad said there were five priorities for this new administration: service delivery; finance; administrative reforms; combat fraud and corruption; and ensure community participation in administration.
“Today should mark the day when coalition parties and opposition parties seek to achieve the most elusive thing in a democratic society: unity and purpose.
READ | Inside the collapse of the Joburg coalition talks that led to the ouster of Mpho Phalatse
“Today, as I accept this responsibility of being Mayor, I give my soul to this just cause of uniting this council and honoring our oath and promises to the communities of the City of Johannesburg.”
Amad’s faith played an important role in the speech and the Imam began by thanking God for the opportunity to lead.
He will announce his executive on Monday morning.
We live in a world where fact and fiction blur.
In uncertain times, you need journalism you can trust. For 14 free days, you can have access to a world of in-depth analysis, investigative journalism, featured opinions, and a variety of features. Journalism strengthens democracy. Invest in the future today. Thereafter, you will be billed R75 per month. You can cancel at any time and if you cancel within 14 days, you will not be billed.
