Update on currently former’ mayor Willemse versus his former DA party members
DA constituency head for Knysna Dr Dion George released a statement entitled ‘A new beginning for the DA in Knysna’, on the subject of the party has finally succeeded at ousting Knysna mayor Mark Willemse.
It read, inter alia: “The Democratic Alliance formally advised Mr Mark Willemse that his application to be re-admitted as a member of the DA and objection lodged was, after consideration of same, refused.
“The reason for the cessation of his membership was due to the outcome of a vote of no confidence in him by his caucus. We have advised the Municipal Manager, Dr Vatala, and he has indicated that he will proceed to action all internal processes.”
George continued that the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) would consequently declare a by-election to fill the vacant seat.
“Former councillor Willemse is no longer the mayor of Knysna or a councillor of the municipality. As a direct result the mayoral committee has automatically dissolved,” George concluded, adding that this situation “signals a new beginning for Knysna and a renewed focus on the need to deliver services to all residents”.
In the light of press reports during the past week claiming that Willemse would contest the situation
on grounds of the termination of his mayoral reign being “unlawful”, CX-PRESS queried the latest state of affairs on Tuesday.
Knysna Municipality spokesperson Christopher Bezuidenhout responded that Willemse had indeed been dethroned through the DA’s efforts.
“Mr Willemse is not the mayor any longer. The municipal manager informed the IEC yesterday (October 7) of the vacancy,” said Bezuidenhout.
“He is, however, taking the matter to court, but that is a separate matter. If indeed he were to win the case, he would have to be reappointed. If not, a by-election will take place within 90 days.”