Liam Jacobs steps up as new MMC for Transport following Kunene's resignation

In a significant shift within the Patriotic Alliance (PA), leader Gayton McKenzie has officially appointed Liam Jacobs as the new proportional representative councillor, taking over from the suspended Kenny Kunene.

At just 24 years old, Jacobs brings fresh energy to the role, having joined the PA in June after a brief tenure with the DA. He is also set to assume the vital position of Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport in Johannesburg.

The change comes on the heels of Kunene's resignation after he was placed on suspension pending an investigation into his alleged connections with a murder suspect.

The former MMC for Transport stepped down from his dual roles as a councillor and MMC after a wave of public scrutiny following his presence at the residence of a suspect arrested for the murder of popular musician Oupa John “DJ Sumbody” Sefoka.

McKenzie took to social media to introduce Jacobs to the role, stating: "Congratulations, Liam. This is your opportunity to show that you do not just complain and point out mistakes; this is your chance to show people you can lead."

In a resignation letter addressed to Margaret Arnolds, the city’s speaker, Kunene maintained his innocence, stating that he is not complicit in any criminal activity but has chosen to step back to facilitate a full investigation.

He divulged that he was at the suspect’s residence to assist with a meeting for a journalist from his online publication, Africa Global News, but felt it was in the public interest to pause his political career until his name could be cleared.

“I regret to inform you that l am tendering my resignation as a Proportional Representation Councillor for the Patriotic Alliance, effective immediately. During my time as a Councillor and the MMC for Transport, I believe I have made a significant contribution to building and rebuilding our beautiful city, and I would like to thank you and all our colleagues in council and government who have worked professionally and diligently alongside me. I am stepping aside from public life, for a period, while my party satisfies itself as to certain allegations that have been raised against me, which are unfounded, but I have nevertheless agreed it would be in the public interest for me to await the clearing of my name before considering a return to public service and duty.”

Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel.

Cape Argus