Ramaphosa warns underperforming ANC mayors: ‘We will take them out’

President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned that ANC councillors and mayors who fail to serve communities or misuse public funds will be removed from their positions, saying the party wants ethical, capable and accountable leaders in local government.

Addressing supporters at the ANC’s final rally ahead of elections at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, on Saturday, Ramaphosa said the party would no longer tolerate poor performance.

We will take them out. We will not seek to explain away the frustration of our people. We feel our people’s frustration. We will not dismiss the anger that our people feel.

Ramaphosa said strict performance management guidelines would be followed and implemented for elected ANC councillors and mayors. He added that the party was determined to rebuild trust, restore services, and ensure that municipalities work for the people, not against them.

The president also defended the ANC’s record in government, pointing to the end of load-shedding as an example of what the party could achieve. He urged supporters to get involved in the final push to ensure they vote.