Amad knew he was a 'political pawn' - analyst
Political analyst Goodenough Mashego says former Johannesburg Mayor Thapelo Amad knew that he was being used as a “political pawn” when he assumed office earlier this year.
Amad, who is a councillor for Al Jama ah party, tendered his resignation on Monday ahead of a no-confidence vote against him.
His short stint as the mayor of the 'City of Gold' lasted only for three months, making him the fifth mayor of the city since 2021 municipal elections.
"I don't think he fell on his own sword as he wants everyone to think he decided to play the Roman fool, but he was thrown on the ANC sword,” said Mashego.
"He knew that you cannot have that much executive power when you are a one-seat party in a council of many political parties.
"He knew that his role in that council being the mayor was going to be a pawn. If he was politically savvy enough he should have known that his being put there means that he can be removed anytime, but when you are put there by the electorate you know that no one will remove you," said Mashego.
Amad told reporters on Monday that his resignation had nothing to do with his ability to lead the country's commercial hub.
The council will sit next week Tuesday to elect a new mayor.
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