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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg expresses serious dissatisfaction with the handling of the allegations and recent arrest of Cllr Kabelo Gwamanda, who is currently on “special leave” as the MMC for Community Development.

Our concerns regarding these fraud allegations were first raised by our former Caucus Leader, Dr Mpho Phalatse, and we reiterated these when Cllr Gwamanda was elected as Executive Mayor. However, these concerns were dismissed as mere gossip.

As the official opposition and representatives of the residents of Johannesburg, we remind the Executive Mayor, Cllr Dada Morero, that he was elected by Council and is accountable to Council, not to the internal processes of any political party. Furthermore, there is no legal basis under the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, the Municipal Structures Act, or the Standing Rules and Orders of Council for “special leave” for members of the mayoral committee who face allegations or legal matters.

The uncertainty surrounding the duration of Cllr Gwamanda’s case is alarming. We cannot allow public funds allocated for critical service delivery to be wasted on individuals accused of fraud, particularly when benefits like VIP protection are involved. The DA strongly condemns this continued use of taxpayer funds without resolution.

The DA hereby demands the following actions:

Immediate removal of Cllr Kabelo Gwamanda from his position as MMC for Community Development.

A full investigation into all activities, agreements, and MOUs signed by Cllr Gwamanda during his tenure as Executive Mayor.

An immediate investigation into any agreements or actions taken by him in his current role as MMC for Community Development.

Failure to act will severely compromise the integrity of the Office of the Executive Mayor, both now and in the future. The DA calls for swift and decisive action to restore public trust.

Issued by Cllr Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku - DA Johannesburg Caucus Leader