Mayor Amad clarifies R9,5 billion loan remarks!

A Motion of No Confidence delayed due to absence by coalition party members in recent council meeting

The Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Cllr. Thapelo Amad, wishes to clarify remarks made during a recent interview on the SABC News regarding a loan to the City of R 9,5 billion.

The remarks by the Mayor were made in reference to the various discussions underway; and the numerous unsolicited proposals that have been directed to the City from a variety of stakeholders.

Mayor Amad was speaking to SABC News broadcaster, Sakina Kamwendo, when he said the Joburg is looking to secure a R9.5-billion loan to be used to improve service delivery and build a smart city.

The loan proposal referred to is but one of many unsolicited proposals advanced to the City following widely published reports on the City's financial difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent economic impact on ratepayers and the City.

The mention of the R9,5 billion loan facility was made as a mere example of the proposals received and not stated as a final and concluded deal of the City. It was used within the context of the interview to demonstrate a collective will by the City leadership to steer Johannesburg and the Inner City around towards growth and development.

The City processes all proposals in line with the legal prescripts applicable to local government and considered by the relevant portfolio MMCs and Departments.

The Mayor and the Mayoral Committee remain committed to realizing a thriving City with stable finances, efficient delivery of services and an improved standard of living for the residents of Johannesburg.

Meanwhile, political parties in the city have also weighted in on the mayor’s interview. Action SA has tabled a Motion of No Confidence against Mayor Amad, scheduled for the 18 April.

The Council Meeting failed to convene due to some councillors from the African National Congress (ANC), Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) other parties in the coalition were not present, filing leave of absences. The Democratic Alliance has also supported the removal of Amad, saying he has publicly incriminated himself when he referred to the loan.

“The Executive Mayor has no business getting involved in these kinds of administrative processes. This is criminal and requires investigation. The DA caucus in Johannesburg will ensure that this instance of corruption is uncovered and dealt with,” said DA’s Mpho Phalatse.

The ActionSA and DA are set to seek legal alternative to remove the current administration.

The Patriotic Alliance (PA) has called for the resignation of Mayor Amad. Leader of the party, Gayton McKenzie, has publicly stated that he has intentions of taking the City’s top seat.

“We must put the citizens of Joburg first and admit we have backed the wrong horse. Thapelo Amad has been asked to climb a mountain too high for him. It’s not just harming Joburg, it’s destroying him too. We will rectify this blunder. Amad should resign now. We apologise profusely,” McKenzie tweeted.