FLTR: Speaker Jansen, Executive Mayor Allers & Executive Deputy Mayor Tyatya
Oudtshoorn, 07 August 2024 – During a Special Council meeting held on 01 August 2024, the council of the Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality elected new leaders to guide the community into a new era of governance. Councillor Johan Allers has been elected as the new Executive Mayor, with Councillor Mziwoxolo Tyatya stepping into the role of Executive Deputy Mayor. Councillor Suzanne Jansen has been appointed as the new Speaker for the Greater Oudtshoorn.
In his inauguration speech the Executive Mayor of the Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality, Alderman Johan Allers highlighted the new governance model, as the Greater Oudtshoorn Municipal Council are the first municipality to establish a Government of Local Unity from the ranks of nine parties chosen by the voters to represent them. “The voters spoke and forced us to work together.” Six parties in the council signed this agreement to work together in the interest of the Greater Oudtshoorn and its people.
Executive Mayor Allers further stated that this journey will not be easy every day and there will be differences, “but we will not focus on our differences, rather our focus will be on service delivery and what is important for our town.” Emphasizing the importance of consensus and dispute resolution, he assured that mechanisms would be put in place to ensure continuous progress.
Mayor Allers outlined a commitment to report to the residents of Oudtshoorn before the end of the year on the progress made. This initiative aims to enhance service delivery and improve relations within the council, municipality, and the public. Key priorities include creating job opportunities, simplifying business processes, reducing bureaucratic obstacles, ensuring fair rates, and boosting the local economy.
“We need to tend to urgent matters, and we will ensure that savings are implemented immediately. We will promote a culture of listening, transparency, accessibility, and reward thoughtfulness and service delivery.” In closing, he pledged, “Together with our new team and municipal staff, I will serve the town and its residents with a culture of humbleness, mutual respect, and dedication.”
The newly elected Executive Mayor, Cllr Allers, also announced the Portfolio Chairpersons for the new Executive Mayoral Committee (MAYCO). The committee is structured as follows:
- Financial Services Committee Chairperson: Councillor CF Sylvester
- Corporate Services Committee Chairperson: Councillor DV Moos
- Infrastructure Services Committee Chairperson: Councillor NM Jaxa
- Community Services Committee Chairperson: Councillor A Tiemie
- Strategic Services Committee Chairperson: Councillor DC Booysen
Furthermore, Councillor Duvenhage has been appointed as the new Chief Whip of Council.
In a decisive move, the new council has imposed an immediate moratorium on all administrative appointments, including those currently in process. This pause is intended to allow the newly appointed Executive Mayor to review the organizational structure, ensuring that the administration operates efficiently and effectively.
The Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality looks forward to a productive term under this new leadership, with a focus on transparency, accountability, and community engagement.