After the resignation of the former leader of the City of Johannesburg DA Caucus, Funzela Ngobeni, the DA has been working to elect a suitable candidate to fill the position. Now the position has been reassigned to another Roodepoort politician.
Funzela, who is a Wilro Park resident, resigned from the DA on 2 March to join former Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Herman Mashaba, who is forming a new political party.
On Monday, 9 March, 101 Johannesburg councillors cast their vote to determine the best candidate to fill the position of Caucus Leader. Roodepoort is especially proud as Ward 97 councillor, Leah Knott came out victorious. Leah has an impressive track record and resume, which made her a credible and ideal candidate for the position. She formerly held the position of MMC for Economic Development as part of Mashaba’s mayoral cabinet, but that came to an end when Mashaba resigned.
Leah is well known by residents from her ward, as well as surrounding wards, as a hands-on councillor who is active in community work throughout the CoJ municipality’s reaches. Her colleagues commended her dedication to the residents of the City of Johannesburg and praised her years of experience in community-based activism.
Leah took to Facebook to express her gratitude and joy after the news was met with floods of support. “I am truly humbled by all the messages of support I have received, and thank my Caucus for their vote of confidence. I look forward to bringing in a new era with their help, and the support of the residents we represent,” said Leah.
Hordes of congratulations were expressed by not only fellow councillors, but residents she has served as well. Ward 70 councillor, Caleb Finn, addressed Leah in his Facebook post saying, “Your unprepared speech was truly inspiring and touching today, and reminded me of the very many chats we have had during the years we have worked together. Thank you for your commitment and for stepping up. Know that you have my support and willingness to assist with what I can.”
A statement released by the DA read, “We wish [Councillor] Knott all the best, and are confident that she will take this Caucus from strength to strength.”
Prospects seem positive for Leah, with predominantly good responses to the announcement of her new position. What is your opinion of her appointment?
