Former Johannesburg mayor Mpho Phalatse has resigned as DA councillor with effect from the end of September.
In her resignation letter addressed to DA caucus leader Belinda Echeozonjoku and chief whip Leah Knot, Phalatse cites her intention to return to her medical profession.
However, she stresses that her resignation does not signal her departure from the opposition party nor the end to her political career.
She states that the decision was solely motivated by her desire to contribute to the healthcare sector and to save other people’s lives.
Phalatse also acknowledges the demanding nature of the healthcare sector, particularly in dealing with frequent medical emergencies.
She also points out that the evolving political landscape and irregularity of council meetings will make it challenging to balance her medical commitments with council activities without compromising either role.
“I have, throughout my career, never compromised on doing quality work,” she wrote.
“I am concerned that faced with a choice between my council responsibilities and medical career, I am inclined to choose to save a life.”
Over the course of her seven-year tenure as a councillor in the City of Johannesburg, Phalatse has achieved notable milestones.
She has served as member of the mayoral committee (MMC) for health and social development, became executive mayor, and was once the leader of the opposition.
“Very few people have the privilege of starting a political career as an MMC for health and social development and becoming an executive mayor and leader of the main opposition in such a short period of time,” she said.
“I am very proud of the achievements we have had during my tenure as an MMC, the executive mayor, and an ordinary councillor.”
In the letter, Phalatse also expresses her ongoing commitment to the country and a belief that her return to public service is inevitable.
She also acknowledges that time will reveal the trajectory of her political journey.
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