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Actor Kgoroge takes top spot

POPULAR: Tony Kgoroge
POPULAR: Tony Kgoroge

AFTER a gruelling two-day elective conference in Bloemfontein, the Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa has elected Tony Kgoroge, the renowned actor and arts activist, as its chairman.

He replaces Yvonne Chaka Chaka, who was appointed the interim chair.

Speaking to Sowetan, Kgoroge was upbeat about the developments.

"It's been a hectic two days, I haven't even had time to myself to reflect. But this is actually the vehicle we've been asking for all these years. We want to be the Cosatu of the arts," he said.

His term runs for four years.

The inaugural council, board and administrative structures of the federation were also elected at the conference, overseen by the IEC.

His deputy is Gezani Kobane, the musician popularly known as Penny Penny. Phemelo Sediti is the general secretary, deputised by Zwelibanzi Ndakane, while Dodo Monamodi is the treasurer-general, and Andrea Dondolo the national coordinator.

Kgoroge said he was a choice of the people. He proved more popular than Eugene Mthethwa, whose face was on a banner of a lobby group. It was apparent the Trompies member was gunning for the top spot. "The position of the chairperson is sensitive. It was a highly competitive election, but I didn't want to force myself. I was backed by six provinces," Kgoroge said.

The board includes practitioners, arts activists, administrators and leaders from various sectors in the cultural and creative industries.

Kgoroge said although there was drama when a group from Free State claimed to be the legitimate representatives of the province, instead of those who were already seated, things went on well.

tiwaneb@timesmedia.co.za

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