The ANC’s Babalwa Lobishe has been elected as the new mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, succeeding the National Alliance’s Gary van Niekerk, who resigned on Thursday as part of an agreement with the ANC. Van Niekerk will now serve as deputy mayor, marking a new ANC-led administration in the metro.
After her uncontested election, Lobishe delivered an acceptance speech expressing gratitude for the nomination and outlining her administration’s priorities. She highlighted key objectives, including addressing the recent flood impacts, restoring power to affected communities, and filling crucial Metro Police positions.
Lobishe emphasized the need for proactive economic growth, noting the region’s underutilized resources. Her election was met with enthusiastic applause during a full council meeting. Previously serving as deputy mayor, Lobishe is expected to announce a new mayoral committee shortly and plans to collaborate with municipal unions to align them with the municipality’s goals.
“We promise not to disappoint anyone,” she affirmed in her address. The council meeting was briefly adjourned to allow members to consult with their respective parties before proceeding.