Xhakaza set to hit the ground running

Ekuruleni’s newly sworn-in Mayor, Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, is set to hit the ground running, assuring residents that addressing their needs will be a top priority.

Xhakaza, who is an ANC councillor, was elected unopposed and sworn in on Thursday following a special sitting in council, breaking the weeks-long stalemate in the metro.

The metro successfully voted on a new mayor weeks after the African Independent Congress (AIC) Sivuyile Ngodwana was voted out of office through a motion of no-confidence sponsored by Action SA.

Xhakaza has served as MMC for group corporate and shared services under the former mayor.

He has also served under former ANC mayor, Mzwandile Masina, as finance and economic development MMC.

Speaking to council members, Xhakaza assured residents that basic service delivery issues such as water and electricity outages will be addressed.

The ANC’s provincial chairperson and Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, described the unanimous election of the new mayor as a victory for all political parties in the municipality.

Lesufi said he met with all political parties that are represented in the council.

Responding to questions on the city’s relationship with other parties, considering the chaos that erupted in February between EFF and ANC councilors, Ekuruleni’s Chief whip, Jongizizwe Dlabathi, said the fact that councilors, irrespective of their parties, were able to vote in unity shows how committed they are to working together. Written by Nokwazi Qumbisa

📽 [WATCH] Newly elected #Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Ald Nkosindiphile Xhakaza shortly after he was sworn in today at an extraordinary council meeting. pic.twitter.com/hXbTF9I2Y5

— CITY OF EKURHULENI (@City_Ekurhuleni) April 11, 2024