On Saturday, 20 October, the Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Mashaba released a statement saying that a press conference would be held today, 21 October about the outcome of the DA’s Federal Council meeting held this past weekend.
At the meeting, former Party Leader, Hellen Zille, was elected as DA Chairperson; an outcome that Mashaba had previously said would prompt his resignation. Zille said that Mashaba might be worried that his current position would be terminated with her as Chairperson, but she does not have that power.
The press conference was held at the Civic Centre in Braamfontein and live-streamed from 10am this morning. Herman Mashaba confirmed that he would be resigning as Joburg Mayor due to the meeting’s outcomes.
Mmusi Maimane took to Twitter to express his respect for Mashaba, saying, “It’s been my greatest honour to serve and work with this incredible South African, Herman Mashaba. Our paths have crossed for a reason and a purpose, and we shall never surrender that purpose.”
He referred to Mashaba as a friend and said his next step would be to communicate with party leaders in respect of their roles. Maimane described today as a difficult day for the people of Johannesburg.
Many Johannesburg residents have expressed their sadness at the loss of Mashaba, and have said that their hope for Johannesburg is now at an all-time low.
What do you think about Mashaba’s resignation and the effect it will have on Johannesburg? Let me know your thoughts by emailing amys@caxton.co.za.
