Democratic Alliance Tightens Leash on its Johannesburg Mayor

by Dramelin 8:30 AM 0 comments

The opposition Democratic Alliance is scrambling to save its reputation as a party capable of governing in South Africa?s richest province following a series of gaffes by its mayor in Johannesburg. The decision came after its mayor of Johannesburg, Herman Mashaba, 57, referred to undocumented immigrants as criminals in comments that sparked criticism from civil rights groups and President Jacob Zuma?s government. The DA assembled a task team to supervise the four big municipalities it?s running in alliance with smaller parties. ?The problem of undocumented immigrants is not a national issue; it?s something that impacts directly on the city of Johannesburg?s ability to deliver to our people,? he said. The DA won control of South Africa?s economic hub in alliance with smaller parties after the ruling African National Congress?s vote fell below 50 percent in the city in August municipal elections.