By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The African National Congress (ANC) has announced its mayoral candidates this evening after a national executive committee (NEC) meeting.
Mpho Moerane will be candidate for the mayoralty of Johannesburg,Mzwandile Masina is set for a second term as mayor of Ekurhuleni, with the ANC expecting to seal a coalition with enough votes to keep the metro.
Frans Boshielo is the ANC’s candidate for Tshwane, Xola Phakati in Buffalo City, Mxolisi Siyonzana in Mangaung, Mxolisi Kaunda in eThekwini and Eugené Johnson in Nelson Mandela Bay.
Moerane, a former member of the mayoral committee (MMC) for environment and infrastructure, was elected as Johannesburg’s mayor in October to replace former mayor Jolidee Matongo, who died in a car accident the month before.
The Johannesburg council meeting will take place on Monday morning.
“The movement adopted comprehensive criteria for mayors, speakers and other political office bearers, aimed at ensuring that leaders who are capable, committed and experienced are placed in these crucial positions,” reads a statement from ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe.
“These criteria include the candidates’ understanding of municipal finances, administrative capability, the regulatory environment of local government, ability to unite, steer and inspire the leadership of the municipality, and willingness to place themselves at the service of communities.
The ANC’s selection panels consisted of ANC national officials, NEC members and other “ANC cadres with experience in local government and development”.
Meanwhile several ANC leaders employed in the party’s head office, Luthuli House, on Sunday joined staff protesting outside the venue of the special national executive committee (NEC) over non-payment of salaries.
NEC members including former Cabinet ministers Nomvula Mokonyane and ANC Women’s League president Bathabile Dlamini as well as Mabe and head of the Presidency Sibongile Besani were among the protesting staff, as they are also employed by the party.
A meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday between staff representatives and the ANC treasurer-general Paul Mashatile, deputy secretary-general Jessie Duarte as well as party management.