PRESS STATEMENT
8 July 2026
Al Jama-Ah Welcomes Caretaker Appointment For Ward 9 To Ensure Continuity Of Service Delivery
Al Jama-ah welcomes the decision by the Speaker of the City of Johannesburg Council, Cllr Margaret Arnolds, to appoint Cllr Kabelo Gwamanda as the Caretaker Councillor for Ward 9 while Cllr Jakes Karolia recovers from illness.
The appointment follows consultations aimed at ensuring that the residents of Ward 9 continue to receive effective representation and uninterrupted municipal services during Cllr Karolia’s temporary absence.
Cllr Gwamanda has formally accepted the appointment and will assume his caretaker responsibilities from 8 July 2026. In accepting the role, he reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with residents, ward committees, community stakeholders, and the City’s administration to ensure that the needs and concerns of the community remain a priority.
Al Jama-ah wishes to emphasise that this is a temporary caretaker arrangement intended solely to maintain continuity of governance and service delivery until Cllr Karolia has fully recovered and is able to resume his duties.
The party extends its heartfelt wishes to Cllr Jakes Karolia for a full and speedy recovery. We respect his privacy during this difficult period and look forward to welcoming him back once his health permits.
We also welcome the Speaker’s decision to convene a public meeting on 12 July 2026, where residents of Ward 9 will be formally informed of the temporary arrangement. Transparency and engagement with the community remain fundamental principles of good governance.
Al Jama-ah remains committed to serving all residents of the City of Johannesburg with integrity, accountability, and dedication, ensuring that no community is disadvantaged during periods of transition.
Contact: Nisa Hendricks
Cell: +27 82 613 1917