The United Democratic Movement (UDM) and Patriotic Alliance (PA) in Nelson Mandela Bay have moved to oust executive mayor Athol Trollip from his position of power.

In addition, the UDM and PA have also served a motion for removal of Nelson Mandela Bay Speaker Jonathan Lawack and it is expected to be debated at the next council meeting scheduled later this month.

The documents sent to the African News Agency (ANA) were served by UDM councillor and former Nelson Mandela Bay deputy mayor Mongameli Bobani and PA councillor Marlon Daniels.

The PA officially withdrew from the DA-led coalition government earlier in September, just three months into it. The PA threatened to terminate its agreement with the DA if Daniels was not elected into the deputy mayor position. At the time Daniels was adamant he should be nominated for the vacant position of deputy mayor after he initially brought the ultimately successful motion of no confidence in the previous UDM incumbent Bobani.

Now it would appear that Daniels and Bobani have joined hands in an attempt to oust Trollip.

The notice of intent sets out challenges the municipality faces under the leadership of Trollip, citing that he “disrespected” council and “gives powers to his DA to deal with council matters”.

The documents cite that Trollip “disregarded non-concurrence of appointments” for the City Manager Johan Mettler and Human Settlements and Corporate Service boss Vuyo Zitumane. Daniels said that Trollip allowed the continuity of reports to council in the hand of an accounting officer who was unduly appointed.

He also criticised Trollip for consistent sittings of council meetings and approval of decisions recommended by the “irregular appointed” Mettler.

“In line with the above, it is clear that the above legislation were contravened. I therefore move that Mr Trollip be removed from his duties with immediate effect as he has disrespected and misled this municipality resulting in law suit.”

Daniels also moved that a new mayor be appointed with immediate effect.