Political winds shift in George as new mayor, deputy take office
George has undergone a major political shake-up as the DA announced a new leadership team ahead of the local government elections.
Browen Johnson will take over as mayor, with Gert van Niekerk of the Freedom Front Plus (FF+) as deputy mayor, and former mayor Jackie von Brandis stepping in as council chief whip.
The shake-up comes after a new coalition was formed between the DA, FF Plus, and ACDP.
The team will be officially inaugurated on Friday.
The changes follow months of uncertainty after three DA ward councillors resigned, leaving the party without a clear majority.
Now, with support from four FF Plus councillors and continued ties with the ACDP, the DA said it was ready to push forward its agenda.
DA Western Cape leader Tertius Simmers welcomed the agreement.
“After constructive engagements with our coalition partners, the FF+ and ACDP, we have now concluded a Multi-Party Coalition Agreement and Addendum for George,” he said.
“The agreement applies only to this municipality and commits us to a stable, transparent, values-driven government for the remainder of the 2021–2026 term.
“The DA is optimistic about the future of George and we will uphold our steadfast commitment to delivering services and good governance to residents.”
The local government elections are expected to take place between November 2026 and January 2027.
IOL News