Home News JUST IN: Thapelo Amad becomes Jozi’s first Muslim mayor!

JUST IN: Thapelo Amad becomes Jozi’s first Muslim mayor!

by Zahid Jadwat

Thapelo Amad, a member of the Al Jama-ah party, has been elected as the new mayor of the City of Johannesburg. This marks a historic moment as he is the first Muslim to hold the position since its creation 1897.

The election took place on Friday, following the ousting of the previous mayor, a member of the Democratic Alliance (DA), in a vote of no confidence. Amad was supported by the African National Congress (ANC0, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and Patriotic Alliance (PA).

 

 

With a total 138 votes, Amad was able to defeat his rivals, Mpho Phalatse – 81 votes – of the DA and Funzela Ngobeni of ActionSA, who garnered 46 votes in his favour. This election – conducted by secret ballot – is significant as it brings a new perspective to the leadership of Johannesburg, South Africa’s commercial hub.

Amad’s election is a highlight of the tenuous political landscape in Johannesburg, with the traditional dominant parties having to work with smaller, emerging parties to retain control in the age of coalition politics.

 

In his acceptance speech, Amad said, “Today, we are reminded that outside political formations our communities remain in a state of joblessness, hopelessness, anger, resentment and hatred. We have neglected them for too long while they watch with disappointment and as we fight for political control over the city.”

 

He inherits an embattled city plagued by pressing issues, including poverty, unemployment, and crime. His leadership will be closely watched as he takes on the challenges of governing one of the most complex municipalities in South Africa.

 

“Today should mark the day where coalition partners and opposition partners seek to achieve the most elusive thing in a democratic society: unity in purpose.  Today, in acceptance, this responsibility of being a city mayor, I bring my soul to this just cause of uniting this council and honouring our oath and promises to the communities in Johannesburg.”

 

Amad will be inaugurated in the Council Chamber in Braamfontein on Monday morning.

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