Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
29 August 2025 | 14:15 CAT

📸 The Johannesburg skyline reflects both promise and decay, as debate over future leadership continues.

The question of who should step into the daunting role of Johannesburg’s mayor continues to dominate political discourse, with the DA’s Helen Zille being one of several names raised.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Political commentator and senior writer at the Institute of Race Relations (IRR), Michael Morris, reflected on the debate, noting that “few individuals truly have what it takes to handle the complexities of a city like Johannesburg.” He referenced TimesLIVE columnist Tom Eaton’s argument that residents fall into two categories: those invested in improving the city and those invested in resisting change, often because they profit from dysfunction.

“It’s a terrible thought,” Morris explained, “that urban collapse can be fantastically lucrative. Think of water tanker tenders when infrastructure crumbles. A parallel economy exists in Johannesburg that depends on bad government.”

Morris illustrated his point with an example from Helen Zille’s early days as Cape Town mayor, describing how she directly confronted a corporate ratepayer who owed the city R1 million. “That kind of decisive and transparent leadership is critical in any struggling city,” he said. But he stressed that the focus should not be on one individual alone.

“Zille has experience, but she cannot be the only answer. South Africa produces ambitious, talented people every year. There’s no reason why younger leaders in their forties and fifties cannot rise to the challenge,” Morris added.

While some argue for localised dialogues to address Johannesburg’s future, Morris believes residents already know what they want. “Reliable water, safe streets, potholes fixed, and a city they can be proud of. What’s needed is effective politics, accountable officials and politicians who deliver.”

Johannesburg, as the country’s economic powerhouse, remains internationally recognised but plagued by decay. From Alexandra to Houghton, residents share the same aspiration: a functional, safe, and liveable city.

“The challenge,” Morris concluded, “is ensuring citizens choose wisely at the ballot box. Change will only come when accountability becomes non-negotiable.”

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Michael Morris.