Dada Morero and Sithembiso Zungu Remain in Power as Political Storms Intensify in Johannesburg
In a dramatic showdown at the Johannesburg Council chambers, the political fates of Joburg Mayor Dada Morero and Chief Whip Sithembiso Zungu hung in the balance—at least for a moment. Despite the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) vigorous push to oust the two ANC officials, both men emerged victorious from unsuccessful motions of no confidence brought against them on Wednesday, 25 June.
The Numbers That Mattered
In a tightly watched council vote:
- Mayor Dada Morero received 75 votes in favour of the motion, 144 against, and 43 abstentions.
- Chief Whip Sithembiso Zungu survived with 179 votes against the motion, 69 in favour, and 6 abstentions.
These figures show a divided yet clearly leaning council, where ANC-led alliances remain numerically strong—at least for now.
Why the Motion?
The DA, backed by smaller opposition parties, argued that Johannesburg is “falling apart under the current leadership.” They cited worsening service delivery, rising crime, crumbling infrastructure, and allegations of maladministration as the basis for their no confidence motions.
In their official statement, the DA warned that “residents are paying the price for political instability and poor governance,” claiming that under Mayor Dada Morero’s leadership, the city is failing to meet its basic obligations to citizens.
The motion wasn’t only about the mayor. The Chief Whip Sithembiso Zungu was also in the crosshairs, accused of failing to maintain council discipline and enabling chaotic governance.
The ANC’s Defence
In response, the ANC and its coalition allies pushed back strongly. Party members described the no-confidence motions as “a political stunt” and an attempt to destabilise the city just months ahead of local elections. Mayor Morero defended his administration’s record, pointing to budget rollouts in key departments, new service delivery initiatives, and efforts to stabilise the city’s electricity and water challenges.
“This was never about service delivery,” Morero said. “This was about political power plays. Johannesburg residents want progress, not power grabs.”
What Happens Next?
Though the motions failed, the sharp divisions inside council chambers reflect deeper cracks in Johannesburg’s political landscape. The city is currently governed by a fragile multi-party coalition, with the ANC, PA, and other smaller parties holding a combined majority—but just barely.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Further motions: More no-confidence debates against the Council Speaker are expected soon.
- Reshuffling risks: Leadership may attempt to reshuffle portfolios to strengthen control and appease coalition partners.
- Public pressure: Ratepayers and residents’ associations are growing louder in their calls for urgent action on infrastructure and crime.
The Bigger Picture
Johannesburg’s political infighting is symptomatic of a broader crisis in metropolitan governance across South Africa. As coalitions shift and instability grows, service delivery suffers—and citizens are left in the middle.
With local elections looming in 2026, the failed no-confidence motions may serve as a dress rehearsal for a bigger political showdown. The DA is likely to use the outcome as a campaign issue, while the ANC will position the failed motions as a vote of confidence in their ability to govern.
READ: Gauteng Government Publishes Final Forensic Reports to Promote Accountability
Recap of the Key Votes
| Position | Votes For | Votes Against | Abstentions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mayor Dada Morero | 75 | 144 | 43 |
| Chief Whip Sithembiso Zungu | 69 | 179 | 6 |
Final Thoughts
For now, Mayor Morero and Chief Whip Zungu live to lead another day, but the message is clear: Johannesburg’s leadership is on thin political ice. The balance of power may have held—for now—but the city’s political future remains as unpredictable as a Gauteng summer storm.
Also read: Johannesburg Councillor Accused of Misusing City-Owned BMW for Political Activities in KZN
