By Hassan Isilow
JOHANNESBURG (AA) – The first Muslim mayor of South Africa’s largest metro Johannesburg has resigned after holding the post for less than 100 days.
Thapelo Amad, 41, a councilor of the small Muslim political party Al-Jama-ah, was elected to the position in late January replacing Mpho Phalatse of the main opposition Democratic Alliance party (DA).
Phalatse was removed in a vote of no-confidence on Jan. 26. Amad too was facing a vote of no-confidence on Tuesday but resigned on Monday hours before city councilors could vote against him.
His resignation was announced by the Gauteng provincial chairperson of the African National Congress party (ANC) Panyaza Lesufi whose party and several others entered a coalition with Al-Jama-ah to form a government of local unity.
“I feel I have done my part as the executive mayor of Johannesburg. I have done nothing wrong. I haven’t stolen from anyone,” Amad told local broadcaster SABC.
He said he hadn’t contravened any laws and in his short period of governance the city had made strides in delivering services to the residents. He said he feels he has fulfilled his mission and needs to allow space for fresh minds and new leadership.
Lesufi said Amad did not resign because of the looming motion of no-confidence which he said their political coalition would defeat since it has the majority of seats. He said Amad kept the interest of the government of local unity above his personal interests and worked selflessly.