Al Jama-ah’s Kabelo Gwamanda has resigned as Johannesburg mayor, in line with the political engagements that have taken place over the past weeks, according to the City of Johannesburg (CoJ).

The CoJ said the decision was largely informed by the new political architecture of governance following the May national and provincial elections.

Opposition parties and civil society have been calling for Gwamanda’s resignation, citing that he is not qualified for the position.

Gwamanda, who took office in May 2023, submitted his resignation letter to the Speaker of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Council Margaret Arnolds, expressing his appreciation for the opportunity given to lead the City.

The CoJ said the resignation will be effective from Friday, when Arnolds convenes an Extra-ordinary council meeting  to elect a new mayor. 

“As the youngest Mayor of Johannesburg I am humbled by the opportunity to have led this City and to have stabilised it financially and administratively following the collapse of the Multi-party coalition government,” Gwamanda said.

He added he was pleased that he managed to “place good governance on course” and stated that the City achieved the best audit outcomes in years, under his leadership.

“I shall continue to serve the people of Johannesburg as a Councillor and will forever cherish the experience afforded to me in my tenure as the Executive Mayor,” he said.

He hopes his story inspires African children in Johannesburg that “against deprivation, isolation, social and political exclusion and with the absence of friends and peers in the corporate and media hierarchy, one can live and rise on the noble cause of changing the conditions of the poor”.

Arnolds expressed gratitude for Gwamanda's "service to the City," acknowledging his contributions during his tenure.

"The City of Johannesburg is deeply appreciative of Mayor Gwamanda's dedication and leadership. His commitment to serving the residents of our City has been commendable, and we wish him well in his future endeavours
in light of the resignation," said Arnolds.