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Picture courtesy: (The Witness) Cyril Xaba elected as the new Mayor at eThekwini Municipality.
(The Post News)- Durban, South Africa – In a historic council meeting at the Durban ICC today on a Wednesday, eThekwini Municipality elected a new mayor, Cyril Xaba, to succeed former mayor Mxolisi Kaunda.
Xaba, a politician and former Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL) in KwaZulu-Natal, was elected unopposed, signalling a new era for the city.
Xaba’s extensive political experience includes serving as the province’s former MEC for Agriculture. His nomination was unanimously endorsed by the council, solidifying his position as the city’s new leader.
In his inaugural address, Xaba expressed his commitment to collaboration and inclusivity, stating, “I assure you of my total commitment to collaborate with all political parties and stakeholders to make this city work for its residents.”
He also extended his gratitude to the ANC, city leadership, staff, and his family for their support.
Xaba’s election follows the recall of former mayor Mxolisi Kaunda by the ANC, who was redeployed to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).
ActionSA’s Zwakele Mncwango nominated the DA’s Thabani Mthethwa for the mayoral position, but Mthethwa declined, citing a lack of consultation.
Former police minister Bheki Cele, who was also considered for the role, attended Xaba’s election ceremony.
Xaba faces the daunting task of addressing the city’s infrastructure backlog, improving public transportation, and enhancing community engagement to build public trust as he begins his term as mayor.
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