Joburg Council to Vote on Deputy Mayor Amidst Motion of No Confidence Against Current Mayor

Johannesburg, South Africa – The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) council is set to hold a pivotal meeting on Thursday, February 26, 2026, where it will consider the appointment of a deputy mayor although simultaneously addressing a motion of no confidence against incumbent Mayor Dada Morero. The move comes as the city potentially heads towards its 11th executive mayor in the past decade, fueled by ongoing factional battles within the African National Congress (ANC).

Deputy Mayor Appointment: Loyiso Masuku as Frontrunner

Loyiso Masuku, the ANC’s newly elected regional chairperson, has emerged as the leading candidate for the deputy mayor position, according to ANC insiders. Masuku replaced Dada Morero as ANC Joburg chair in December 2025 Polity. The appointment is viewed as an attempt by the governing party to strengthen its executive authority amidst both internal and external pressures.

Motion of No Confidence in Mayor Morero

Mayor Morero faces a third motion of no confidence on Thursday. Previous attempts to remove him from office have been unsuccessful, including one instance where the ANC successfully argued for a secret ballot, citing Rule 18 of the council’s Standing Rules, and Orders. This allowed Morero to retain his position by shielding councillors from party-political pressure Daily Maverick.

However, council rules do not explicitly authorize secret ballots in motions of no confidence or removal proceedings, nor do they grant the speaker the authority to approve them. Thursday’s vote is expected to be conducted openly. Opposition parties are actively lobbying smaller parties and potentially dissenting ANC councillors to secure a majority vote against Morero.

Financial Implications of the New Deputy Mayor Position

The creation of the deputy mayor post has raised concerns regarding its financial impact. The position is projected to cost taxpayers approximately R1,280,117 annually Mail & Guardian, a figure also cited in a letter from Gauteng Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Mzi Khumalo, who urged the council to consider strengthening executive continuity in 2023. City officials state the role will replace an existing MMC position to minimize additional costs and will mirror the structure in the City of Tshwane, where the deputy mayor also oversees the finance portfolio.

Ongoing Political Instability

The political landscape in Johannesburg remains volatile, with the city potentially on track for its 11th executive mayor in 10 years Daily Maverick. The outcome of Thursday’s proceedings will be crucial in determining the future leadership and stability of the city.