By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Former City of Johannesburg executive mayor Dr Mpho Phalatse has resigned as councillor of the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the City of Gold.
Phalatse said the decision was made after months of introspection, but she said she was not resigning as a member of the DA, nor was it an end to her political career.
The resignation is effective from 30 September.
In a letter sent to council, Phalatse said she is quitting to focus on “saving lives” in the healthcare sector.
“The changing political and economic climate have necessitated that I embark on a process of introspection and reflection regarding my future as a councillor.
“After months of in-depth reflection and consultation with my family, I have come to the conclusion that as a qualified medical doctor with vast experience in healthcare and beyond, I could make a better, meaningful and invaluable contribution elsewhere, I am inclined to choose to save a life.”
Phalatse was ousted in January this year following a motion on confidence against her.
Earlier this year she suffered another blow when she was beaten to the position of DA leader by John Steenhusen.
Phalatse, who is a medical doctor by profession, says she will remain a DA member.
“My resignation should never be misconstrued as a resignation from the Democratic Alliance. Neither should it be considered as the end of my political career. I remain a patriotic South African and my return to public service is guaranteed. Time will tell!”
Phalatse said the past seven years as a councillor had been a fulfilling experience, having served as an ordinary councillor, an MMC for Health and Social Development, and becoming an Executive Mayor and Leader of the DA.