ActionSA opposes Andile Gobinca’s appointment as Johannesburg secretary

ActionSA announces it will seek legal counsel to overturn Andile Gobinca’s appointment as the City of Johannesburg’s secretary, citing his insufficient qualifications for the role.

Gobinca has been the acting secretary since July 2022 and will now earn R2.1 million per annum.

ACTIONSA REJECTS ANDILE GOBINCA’S APPOINTMENT AS CITY OF JOHANNESBURG SECRETARY 

The party said that while it acknowledged Gobinca’s alternative academic achievements, it firmly believed that this position should be held by an individual with relevant legal qualifications, experience in local governance, and a well-rounded understanding of the legal field.

ActionSA spokesperson Khumo Mashala told IOL that they objected to Gobinca’s appointment because, as advertised in the post, he didn’t have the ten years of experience and qualifications needed in the legal field. 

Mashala said Gobinca was the Director of Finance and only had finance qualifications and not the required LLB.

ActionSA caucus leader in Johannesburg Nobuhle Mthembu said they cannot participate in setting a precedent where candidates who are not unquestionably fit for the position are appointed. 

Mthembu said ActionSA would seek legal advice to rescind this detrimental decision, where the Council opted to endorse someone without suitable qualifications.

Further, despite his qualifications, the caucus leader said the City of Johannesburg Council overlooked Mohammed Ismail Khan for the position of Integrity Commissioner. 

Khan has reportedly practised as an attorney for over 21 years and served as a Magistrate for 22 years. 

“ActionSA contends that if the Council is serious about rebuilding our City, this must be reflected in our decisions. Our principled value of ethical leadership obviates our strong disapproval of this appointment.

NOT THE FIRST QUESTIONABLE APPOINTMENT 

Mthembu said they previously cautioned the Council when they appointed embattled mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, who reportedly holds a Grade 10 certificate holder.  “Despite our concerns, we were met with insults, and today, the City is in a state of disaster due to hiring a questionable competency.

“We urge that those responsible for candidate selection be objective and fair during the shortlisting process to ensure the City is staffed by skilled professionals who can effectively support its mandate,” Mthembu said.