Samwu appeals for stability amid Gwamanda exit rumours

There has been growing pressure from political parties and civic organisations for Kabelo Gwamanda to stand down amid service delivery frustrations.

Gwamanda was elected to the position through the African National Congress-led government of local unity in May last year.

However, the ANC in the region has led the charge for his removal in favour of their own candidate.

Speaking at a media briefing in Marshalltown on Thursday, Samwu's Richard Moiloa called on councillors to prioritise stability in the metro.

The union warned of the ripple effect of the government of national unity on local government, saying it brough about additional bureaucracy and potential conflicts that could hinder effective governance.

While the ANC in Johannesburg insists Gwamanda is on way out, his party Al Jama Ah said it was given the mandate by the ANC's national structure to oversee the coalition in the metro - and Gwamanda will remain mayor.

Samwu warned that the deal brokered after none of the political parties managed an outright majority in the general elections appears to be having negative consequences on governance at municipal level, and is threatening added instability and a further decline in the quality of service delivery.

Moiloa said the issue needs to be discussed.

“Samwu calls for greater dialogue to address the consequences of this political instability on workers and the community at large. We believe that a collaborative approach is essential to finding sustainable solutions.

“It is imperative that all stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society, and labour unions, come together to discuss and mitigate the impacts of political instability. Only through open and constructive dialogue can we hope to achieve a stable and effective local government that serves the interests of all its citizens,” he added.

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