The DA in the Western Cape welcomed the appointment of Raymond Ross as new Executive Mayor of Cape Agulhas.
DA provincial leader Tertuis Simmers said the party had faith in Ross, who has served the people of Cape Agulhas “with humility and integrity” since he was first elected to the Cape Agulhas Municipality (CAM) in 2021.
“The Cape Agulhas Municipality has for years been one of the best-performing municipalities in the country, and we are confident that, under Raymond’s leadership, the municipality will continue to excel.”
Manager Eben Phillips added: “His (Ross’) leadership promises to bring fresh perspectives and effective governance to our region, ensuring a prosperous and harmonious future for all.”
CAM also announced last week councillor Karin Donald had been elected Deputy Mayor, a position filled by Ross before being appointed Acting Mayor following the removal of Paul Swart as Executive Mayor after a motion of no confidence was made against him.
Donald was also appointed as Mayco Member responsible for Finance and Information Technology and Communication (ITC).
In addition to this, Sikhulule Ngxowa, who served as Executive Support Officer in the Office of the Executive Mayor, was also sworn in as a councillor during last week’s special council meeting.
At the age of 34 he is the youngest councillor in the municipality and has been selected as Mayco Member responsible for Management Services.
“These changes mark a significant transition in leadership within the council,” said Phillips, “reflecting the democratic processes and responsibilities inherent in local governance.
“Together, let us embrace this new chapter with optimism and unity as we continue to build a vibrant and inclusive Cape Agulhas Municipality.”
These developments follow the removal of Swart during a special council meeting at the end of May after a motion of no confidence against him based on the findings of a disciplinary committee that found him guilty of misconduct on two charges.
Swart, on whom the title of Alderman was bestowed in August 2023, resigned from his position as councillor after being appointed a permanent delegate of the Western Cape to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).
NCOP is one of the two houses of the South African National Parliament, alongside the National Assembly, and is dedicated to representing the provinces, ensuring provincial interests are considered in the national legislative process.
“This new position brings with it a wealth of challenges and opportunities, and I am eager to serve our beloved Western Cape Province with pride and dedication,” Swart stated in a Facebook post.
