ActionSA has said it will seek legal advice with the aim of rescinding Andile Gobinca’s appointment as Secretary to the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) metropolitan municipality.

The party rejected Gobinca’s appointment, citing that he lacked necessary qualifications for the position.

ActionSA CoJ caucus leader Nobuhle Mthembu said her party believed in the professionalisation of the public sector and insisted that appointments should be based on merit, competence and a commitment to ethical service.

“While we acknowledge his alternative academic achievements, we firmly believe that this position should be held by an individual with relevant legal qualifications and experience in local governance, as well as a well-rounded understanding of the legal field,” said Mthembu.

She said ActionSA could not participate in setting a precedent where “unquestionably fit” candidates were appointed, and urged those responsible for candidate selection to be objective and fair during the shortlisting process.

“Consequently, ActionSA will seek legal advice with the aim of rescinding this detrimental decision, where the Council opted to endorse someone without suitable qualifications,” she highlighted.

She pointed out that the Council also overlooked Mohammed Ismail Khan for the position of Integrity Commissioner, despite his qualifications.

Khan has practiced as an attorney for over 21 years and served as a Magistrate for 22 years.

Additionally, Mthembu pointed out that Khan was not affiliated with any political party.

“ActionSA contends that if the Council is serious about rebuilding the City, this must be reflected in the decisions we make. Our principled value of ethical leadership obviates our strong disapproval of this appointment,” she said.

The party said it had previously cautioned the Council when they appointed Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, a Grade 10 certificate holder, in 2023.

“Despite our concerns, we were met with insults, and today, the City is in a state of disaster as a consequence of hiring a questionable competency,” said Mthembu.