New mayor Amad has opportunity to turn Joburg around, says union

The SA Municipal Workers' Union (Samwu) has called for political stability in Johannesburg in the interest of workers and service delivery, given the political turmoil that has dogged the metro in the past few months.

Regional secretary Thobani Nkosi said with the election of the new executive mayor Thapelo Amad, there has never been a more opportune moment for all political parties represented in council to put aside their differences and work towards ensuring the city is politically and administratively stabilised.

The union, which described the previous mayor as “anti-worker and anti-black” says it was one of the first organisations to express joy when she was first removed late last year.

“Just as we did when Councillor [Mpho] Phalatse was first removed, we welcome the decision by parties in the council to remove her as mayor. She has done nothing but bring pain, suffering and prejudice to workers in the city.”

Phalatse was removed in a vote of no confidence last week with Amad promptly elected as her replacement.