Da Gama forced out in a motion of no confidence

It seems there are no immediate plans to replace Vasco Da Gama as the City of Johannesburg council says it will forge ahead with its work without a Speaker. Da Gama was ousted in a motion of no confidence that was tabled earlier this week. The African National Congress (ANC) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)…

It seems there are no immediate plans to replace Vasco Da Gama as the City of Johannesburg council says it will forge ahead with its work without a Speaker.

Da Gama was ousted in a motion of no confidence that was tabled earlier this week. The African National Congress (ANC) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) voted together with other parties to remove Da Gama, who is with the Democratic Alliance (DA), removed.

WHO WILL PERFORM SPEAKER’S FUNCTIONS IN COUNCIL?

According to the Johannesburg Mayor’s office, the council does not have a Deputy Speaker. This means that the secretary of council will be in charge of the functions and operations of the City’s legislature.

Mayoral spokesperson Mabine Seabe says a new Speaker could be elected at the next council sitting.

“At the next sitting of Council or as soon as it’s reasonably possible, a Speaker of Council will be elected. It must be noted that the intention of our political opponents to table a motion of no confidence in the Executive Mayor at the next Council sitting is but an attempt to gain access to funds meant for the delivery of services.

It also comes as a response to the announcement by the MMC for Group Corporates Services, Cllr Leah Knott, that lifestyle audits will be conducted on all councillors and senior managers,” Seabe adds.

In addition, all indications are that opposition parties intend targeting Mayor Mpho Phalatse and want her also voted out.