The controversial ousting of former eThekwini deputy mayor and leader of the Abantu Batho Congress (ABC), Philani Mavundla, from office has made way for the election of Councillor Zandile Myeni of the National Freedom Party (NFP) as his replacement, after quorum was met on Friday, 3 February.
Councillor Myeni was voted in with 128 votes out of 209 ballots. While Councillor Patience Sishange of the African National Congress (ANC) was voted in as the new Chief Whip of the eThekwini Council with 128 votes following the resignation of former-whip, Councillor Themba Ntuli. The NFP said that they have the utmost confidence in Myeni performing her duties as deputy mayor of eThekwini.
“We have the utmost faith in her. She has showcased her strength and resilience and will be able to develop eThekwini without fear nor favour. The citizens of eThekwini will see firsthand what service delivery looks like in the capable hands of Zandile Myeni who has devoted herself to the mantra of the NFP which is ‘Service Delivery, Nothing Else’. Congratulations Ms Myeni and congratulations to the citizens of eThekwini,” the party leaders said.
Speaking to the national broadcaster, SABC, Myeni said that her priority is to deal with eThekwini’s ageing infrastructure, cleanliness and bring about stability within the fractured municipality. “In a coalition, you have to look above petty issues and focus on service delivery. The minority voice must be heard. Maturity needs to prevail because this is not about us but the electorate who voted for us,” said the NFP provincial secretary.
Meanwhile prior to the election of the deputy mayor and eThekwini whip, Mayor Kaunda also survived a vote of no confidence against him. The motion, brought forward by Councillor Imtiaz Syed of the ACC was defeated 127 to 81 with the EFF, AIC, ADEC, APF, ATM, JEP, MF, NFP, PFP, PRM and TA throwing their weight behind the ANC to keep the mayor as first citizen.
