Johannesburg simmers with political tension as the Patriotic Alliance (PA) fiercely demands Kenny Kunene reinstatement as transport MMC. Initially, Kunene resigned in July after police spotted him at a murder suspect’s home. However, a law firm probe cleared him, and now he seeks to reclaim his position.
As a result, PA leader Gayton McKenzie issued a fiery ultimatum. Specifically, he gave the ANC seven days to act, or PA would abandon coalitions.
“You can’t dine at the table when disrespect is on the menu,” McKenzie stated on Facebook.
Consequently, the deadline landed on 30 September.
Ultimatum Shakes Coalition Foundations
Moreover, McKenzie intensified the drama, vowing to exit the GNU Cabinet if the Kenny Kunene reinstatement faltered.
“If I don’t resign, don’t vote PA again,” he declared in a live video, even hinting at a DA alliance.
Additionally, he slammed Mayor Dada Morero for sidelining PA and ignoring Westbury’s water crisis.
In contrast, ANC’s Mzi Khumalo rejected ultimatums, calling them “illogical.” Nevertheless, Friday’s talks ignited hope for a resolution.
For example, ANC’s Fikile Mbalula urged maturity, stating, “Threats don’t build unity.”
Sources reveal President Cyril Ramaphosa pushed for action to secure stability.
Transport Portfolio’s High Stakes
Importantly, the transport role carries significant weight. For instance, it attracts major funding for road repairs before November’s G20 summit. Meanwhile, Kunene, PA’s mayoral candidate, aims to tackle potholes and traffic. A Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr report confirmed his innocence, noting he joined a journalist probing Katiso “KT” Molefe, linked to DJ Sumbody’s 2022 murder.
After re-swearing as councillor on 26 September, Kunene criticized Morero’s delays.
“Only Kenny Kunene reinstated keeps me here,” McKenzie stressed.
Talks Set to Seal Agreement
On Tuesday, 30 September, ANC and PA delegations convened to finalize the Kenny Kunene reinstatement. Thus, this deal blocks EFF’s bid for the lucrative transport role. Meanwhile, DA’s Helen Zille’s mayoral candidacy tests the ANC-led coalition. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi noted “serious tensions.” Ultimately, for Joburg residents, this agreement shifts focus to improving roads and services.
