Former Johannesburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda Seeks MMC Role Return, Legal Action Against Speaker of Council Looms
In a dramatic twist, former Joburg mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, who also serves as an Al Jama-ah councillor, is making a bold demand for his immediate reinstatement as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development. This demand, marked by legal challenges, comes after his recent dismissal by current Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero following his arrest for fraud. Gwamanda, through his legal representatives, has notified the Speaker of Council, Nobuhle Mthembu, that he expects to return to his role by Thursday, November 14, or further legal steps will ensue.
The Legal Backdrop: Claims of Unfair Dismissal
Gwamanda’s attorneys at Kern, Armstrong & Associates, issued a formal notice on November 11, arguing that his dismissal was procedurally flawed. According to their statement, Gwamanda was not allowed the chance to clear his name before the ethics committee had concluded its investigation. Additionally, they assert he learned of his dismissal only through media reports, raising questions about the transparency of his removal.
In response, the attorneys stressed that the Council should adhere to principles of “fairness and equality” and urged the Speaker to address what they see as procedural missteps.
Seeking Political Intervention
In an attempt to resolve the matter diplomatically, Gwamanda’s lawyers have recommended that coalition partners within the Government of Local Unity (GLU), led by the ANC, convene to discuss a possible reinstatement. They have given the council until Thursday morning to find a political solution, after which they will pursue further legal measures if an agreement has not been reached.
The letter also indicates that Gwamanda demands a public apology from Speaker Mthembu. Alleging character defamation, Gwamanda claims Mthembu’s remarks about his association with the controversial funeral policy company Ithemba Lama Afrika have damaged his reputation. His lawyers argue that Mthembu should have maintained neutrality, given her role as the Speaker, rather than acting as a political figure in her capacity as chairperson of ActionSA in Johannesburg.
Political Responses: Mashaba and ActionSA React
ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba commented on Gwamanda’s demands, expressing surprise at the situation. He clarified that the decision to dismiss Gwamanda was made by Mayor Morero, not Speaker Mthembu. Mashaba stated that ActionSA would formally respond once they received the legal papers from Gwamanda’s team.
DA’s Perspective: Gwamanda Should Prove His Innocence
Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, the DA’s Johannesburg leader, echoed support for Gwamanda’s dismissal, considering the severe allegations he faces. She said his removal was a prudent move by Mayor Morero and emphasized that Gwamanda should use this time to prove his innocence or face legal consequences.
What’s Next for Gwamanda?
As Thursday’s deadline looms, the City of Johannesburg faces mounting pressure to address Gwamanda’s allegations of unfair treatment and defamation. The legal standoff between Gwamanda and the council highlights the complexities of political accountability and due process in South Africa’s local government.
Also read: JRA Closes Roodepoort Roads Due To Illegal Mining Collapse: Motorists Advised to Avoid Area
