The Democratic Alliance (DA) has tabled a motion of no confidence against Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero, accusing him of failing to address the city’s escalating service delivery and financial crises. The party has also leveled allegations of political “capture” against Council Speaker Nobuhle Mthembu, claiming she has failed to hold the executive accountable.
Motion Targets Mayor, Speaker, and Chief Whip
The DA’s motion, set to be heard next week in the Johannesburg Council’s program committee, seeks to remove Morero, Mthembu, and Chief Whip Sthembiso Zungu. A separate motion against Zungu was filed by Al Jama-ah’s Thapelo Ahmed.
DA Chief Whip in the Johannesburg Council, Nicole Rahn, confirmed the party’s stance, stating that Morero’s administration has overseen a collapse in basic services, including prolonged water and electricity outages. “Residents only need to drive down their streets to see the city imploding,” Rahn said in an interview.
Accusations of Partisanship and Mismanagement
Rahn accused Morero, an ANC member, of running the city in a partisan manner, prioritizing coalition partners—the EFF, PA, and Action SA—over residents. She also criticized the city’s financial management, alleging excessive borrowing to cover operational costs rather than infrastructure investment.
Regarding Speaker Mthembu, Rahn claimed she had been “captured” by the executive, citing over 40 extraordinary council sittings in a four-year term as evidence of poor governance. “The executive is not planning—everything is knee-jerk,” Rahn said.
Coalition Dynamics and Leadership Instability
The motion comes amid Johannesburg’s prolonged political instability, with eight mayors serving in the past five years. When questioned whether frequent leadership changes worsen governance, Rahn argued the DA had exhausted all other avenues, including written appeals and council interventions, before resorting to the motion.
Despite the ANC-led coalition’s majority, Rahn hinted at behind-the-scenes negotiations with other parties, though she declined to name them. “A day in politics is a long time,” she said, suggesting potential shifts in voting allegiances.
Denial of Power Grab Allegations
Rahn dismissed suggestions that the motion was a bid to install DA leadership, stating the party lacks the numbers to take control before the 2026 elections. However, she affirmed the DA’s long-term goal to govern Johannesburg, citing a desire to “stop the rot” and restore services.
Next Steps
The motion will be debated next week, with its success hinging on whether opposition parties unite against the ANC coalition. If passed, Johannesburg could see its ninth mayor in five years, further highlighting the city’s turbulent governance.
For now, residents remain caught in the crossfire of political infighting as service delivery continues to deteriorate.
