The Patriotic Alliance leader takes swift action following Kunene’s suspension amid controversy; Mayor Morero yet to name a new MMC for Transport.
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| Liam Jacobs addressing council (left) and pictured with Gayton McKenzie during the live announcement of his move to the Patriotic Alliance (right). |
Patriotic Alliance (PA) President Gayton McKenzie has appointed Liam Jacobs, a former Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament, as a councillor in the City of Johannesburg. The move follows the recent resignation of Kenny Kunene from both his role as councillor and Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport.
This announcement comes days after McKenzie suspended Kunene from all party-related duties, pending an investigation into his alleged association with Katiso “KT” Molefe, a businessman accused of involvement in the 2022 murder of musician DJ Sumbody.
McKenzie confirmed Jacobs' appointment on Monday, July 29, stating that the party had moved quickly to fill the vacant seat left by Kunene. He said Jacobs’ name would be formally submitted to Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero.
"Liam Jacobs will step into the role of councillor as Kenny Kunene steps aside during this investigation," McKenzie said.
At just 24, Jacobs brings a fresh political profile to the PA after recently defecting from the DA. His addition signals a new chapter for the party’s representation in Johannesburg.
Kunene’s resignation followed growing public and political pressure after he was seen at the residence of Molefe. Although Kunene denied any wrongdoing, he stated that he was stepping back to avoid tarnishing the image of the Patriotic Alliance or disrupting government operations.
“I maintain my innocence, but I’m stepping aside to allow a fair process to take place,” Kunene said in a prior statement.
McKenzie had suspended Kunene for a month, citing the need for transparency and accountability, despite expressing personal confidence in him.
While Jacobs has been named as councillor, the crucial role of MMC for Transport remains unfilled. Mayor Morero has not yet announced who will take over the portfolio, which oversees Johannesburg's transport infrastructure, public transit systems, and traffic management.
This vacancy has sparked concern among civic groups and opposition parties, given the importance of continuity in managing public services in the city.
McKenzie noted that a legal firm would independently investigate the allegations surrounding Kunene, reinforcing the party’s commitment to ethical governance.
Liam Jacobs, meanwhile, is expected to begin duties immediately as a city councillor. His rise within the Patriotic Alliance reflects the party’s broader goal of attracting young, influential figures to strengthen its presence in key municipalities.
📌 Summary
- Kenny Kunene resigns amid controversy linking him to a murder suspect.
- Liam Jacobs, a former DA MP, is appointed as his replacement in council.
- The MMC for Transport role remains vacant pending a decision from Mayor Morero.
- An independent investigation into the Kunene matter is underway.
Kenny Kunene Found at Home of DJ Sumbody’s Alleged Murder Mastermind During Police Raid
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