THE DA and ActionSA have called for an extraordinary council to elect a new speaker to replace axed Cope councillor, Colleen Makhubele.
Makhubele was fired on Monday, 13 November, allegedly for falsely claiming that Cope had joined a new political formation, the South African Rainbow Alliance (Sara), without the party's approval.
According to the rules of the council, Makhubele’s departure from Cope meant that she was no longer a proportional representative councillor, nor the speaker of council.
DA Joburg caucus leader Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku said on Tuesday, 14 November, that the council was a circus under Makhubele’s leadership.
“Political instability in Joburg has become the norm. Her departure from Cope and council is a symptom of a disease that only has one cure – the dissolution of Joburg’s council,” she said.
ALSO READ: 'Vuka Mzansi, your vote carries power'
She said Makhubele had no respect for proper procedures and democratic principles in council proceedings.
She said the residents deserved better from political parties.
“They deserve a council that is transparent, accountable, and fully committed to delivering quality services. Therefore, we call for new elections, providing the people of Joburg the opportunity to rescue their city and set a new course for its future,” said Kayser-Echeozonjoku.
ActionSA's caucus leader Nobuhle Mthembu said she believed Makhubele’s removal would bring the council one step closer to restoring order to the City of Joburg.
“We therefore implore the city manager to call an extraordinary council where we can elect a new speaker. We need to close the Collen chapter as soon as possible. The city cannot afford to go one day more without the speaker,” said Mthembu.
