Ramaphosa warns ANC councillors, 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, the president emphasised that the party would no longer tolerate underperformance.

We will take them out.

Ramaphosa stated that strict performance management guidelines would be followed and implemented for all elected ANC councillors and mayors to ensure they prioritise service delivery.

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 when focused on solutions.

A few months ago, there was load-shedding all over. It was an ANC-led government that made sure that we bring an end to it.

He concluded by urging party members to focus on the final push to ensure voter turnout in the upcoming elections.

In the end, comrades, we must now all get involved in the final push. The final push is to make sure we vote.