Johannesburg Elects 7th Mayor in 3 Years Amid Service Delivery Concerns

In a development highlighting ongoing political instability, Johannesburg, South Africa's largest city, has elected its seventh mayor in three years. Dada Morero of the African National Congress (ANC) has assumed the role, succeeding Kabelo Gwamanda, who resigned under pressure.

Johannesburg, known as "Egoli" or "City of Gold" in Zulu, has been grappling with governance challenges due to shifting coalition politics in the city council. No single party holds a majority, leading to frequent changes in leadership. Morero's election was supported by an ANC-led coalition, including Action SA and several smaller parties.

The political turmoil has reportedly contributed to a decline in basic services and an increase in crime, according to residents' complaints. Civil society groups argue that the lack of consistent leadership has resulted in incoherent policies and poor service delivery.

Neeshan Balton, executive director of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation and co-convenor of the Joburg Crisis Alliance, expressed concern about the situation: "There's no coherence in policy. Each and every (mayor) runs their portfolio as their own personal fiefdom."

Johannesburg, home to over 5 million inhabitants, is a city of stark contrasts. It boasts the largest man-made urban forest globally, with over 10 million trees, yet faces significant challenges in maintaining basic infrastructure. The city houses both luxurious shopping malls in Sandton, dubbed "Africa's richest square mile," and crime-ridden downtown areas where gangs control entire apartment blocks.

Despite these challenges, Johannesburg remains an economic powerhouse, generating approximately 15% of South Africa's economic output. It is home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, the largest in Africa, and serves as the headquarters for most South African companies.

The ANC, recognizing the importance of improving local governance, has pledged to focus on stabilizing the municipality. Zuko Godlimpi, the party spokesperson, stated last week, "Part of what the ANC is going to do now is to focus very seriously on the local government sphere. And we're starting in Johannesburg."

It's worth noting that Morero previously served as mayor for a brief 25-day period in 2022 before his predecessor was reinstated by court order. This revolving door of leadership has occurred against the backdrop of broader political shifts in South Africa. In the national election held in May 2023, the ANC lost its majority, partly due to poor service delivery in metropolitan areas.

As Johannesburg faces these governance challenges, it continues to be a city of significance. It hosts the tallest building in Africa, the Carlton Centre, and was a key venue during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The city is also home to important historical sites such as the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill, a former prison complex now serving as a museum and constitutional court.

The new administration under Morero faces the daunting task of addressing the city's pressing issues, including frequent power outages due to aging electrical infrastructure and high crime rates in certain areas. As Africa's busiest airport hub and a major economic center, Johannesburg's stability and efficient governance are crucial not only for South Africa but for the entire region.