Kingdom Mabuza

Kingdom Mabuza

Former Ekurhuleni Metro speaker Lentheng Ntombi Mekgwe was smoothly elected mayor on Tuesday.

Opposition parties tried to club together and contest Mekgwe's nomination by putting forward independent councillor Izak Berg for the post, but Mekgwe collected 109 votes against eight for Berg.

Berg's nomination drew laughter when it was motivated by Azapo representative Alfred Ntombela. Ntombela has acted in many comedies with funnyman Leon Schuster.

Mekgwe took over from Duma Nkosi, who resigned under pressure from his own party, reportedly for failing to deliver services.

The new mayor said she was humbled by the confidence her party showed in her.

Mekgwe said the council would ensure that service delivery was aimed at improving the lives of the people.

"We would like to invite businesses, civil society and all stakeholders to embrace our five-year vision and join us in partnership as we continue to build a better life for all," Mekgwe said.