By Celani Sikhakhane
- Andile Nkosi won a secret ballot against ActionSA councillor Shailendra Singh to become the new deputy mayor of Newcastle Municipality.
- Nkosi replaced his brother-in-law as deputy mayor and is now tipped to take over as Team Sugar South Africa president.
Andile Nkosi has been appointed the new deputy mayor of the embattled Newcastle Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal.
Nkosi replaces his own brother-in-law, who was removed from the deputy mayor position last year. He was appointed last week after winning a closely contested election.
Nkosi ran against ActionSA councillor Shailendra Singh in a secret ballot vote. The majority of councillors cast their votes in favour of Nkosi.
His brother-in-law is the president of the Team Sugar South Africa (TSSA) political party. Nkosi is now also being tipped to take over that role.
“After he toppled his brother-in-law from the party presidency, Nkosi was also appointed to replace him as the deputy mayor of Newcastle,” a source said.
The council meeting where Nkosi was elected was chaired by speaker of council, Councillor Theni Zulu. Councillors, municipal officials and members of the community attended the meeting.
Nkosi took his oath of office before presiding magistrate Lulama Shabangu, who oversaw the proceedings. In his oath, Nkosi committed to uphold the Constitution and carry out his duties with honour, integrity and dedication to improve the lives of Newcastle residents.
Mayor Dube congratulated Nkosi on his appointment. Dube said it is important for the council to work together to deliver on the needs of the community. He said this remains the main responsibility of all public servants.
Pictured above: Andile Nkosi.
Image source: Newcastle Municipality
