Joburg DA to propose motion to dissolve council, instead of contesting mayoral position

JOHANNESBURG - The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg says it will once again propose a motion to dissolve the council instead of contesting the mayoral position.

A new mayor is scheduled to be elected on Friday afternoon, following Kabelo Gwamanda's resignation earlier this week.

The African National Congress (ANC) has announced intentions to nominate its regional leader and former mayor, Dada Morero, for the city’s highest office.

DA caucus leader Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku said the only way to save the city from sinking further was to dissolve the council.

"When a city can no longer deliver on basic services, the province is obliged to act. It will not help to put Johannesburg under the administration of an ANC-run province, so the only viable remedy is dissolution.

"It is only by putting the power back into the hands of the people who live in the city that a new council can be elected that will be more responsive to residents."