In his first address after being elected, the Mayor expressed that today marked history with him being the first Muslim mayor of Johannesburg.

Amad requested Council to support him to work with broader society, adding that he plans to bring basic service delivery to “all the corners of the City”. 

The new mayor spoke of combating fraud and corruption as well working on the finances of the city as a few things he plans to do as the mayor.

Shortly after, the coalition government heads met the media to congratulate Amad for his election into the position.

Chairperson of the ANC in Gauteng and Premier of the province, Panyaza Lesufi took the moment to congratulate the mayor, but blamed the DA for the collapse of the City Council Meeting in Ekurhuleni. 

He further emphasised that the coalition has the prime goal of addressing service delivery. 

“They created this mess and so they must suffer the consequences for this mess”- Panyaza Lesufi.

Speaking on the removal of Phalatse as the mayor, Lesufi criticsed the previous administration, adding that people should check the recent audit report on the City.

He emphasised that the DA are reaping the consequences of their actions and that their plan to end load shedding in the City of Joburg, was a “gimmick” because the city had no money.

Lesufi’s sentiments were echoed by Patriotic Alliance President, Gayton McKenzie who referred to the DA as “the most corrupt party in the history of South Africa”

He further added that most coalitions in the country crumble because of the DA and that the new mayor is set to experience criticism just like the PA was.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Council, Colleen Makhubele assured the residents of Joburg that “the change in mayorship will not affect service delivery”

“Starting from tomorrow, you will see me on the ground”- Thapelo Amad

Thapelo Amad has seemingly taken the new position with open arms, with promises to be on the ground tomorrow.

The newly elected mayor is set to be sworn in on 30 January 2023.