Africa-Press – Eswatini. The winds of continuity and renewal swept through Malkerns Town Council chambers as Councillors convened for their inaugural meeting, voting in a leadership that blends seasoned stability with new dynamism.
Councillor Bongani Mabuza was re-elected as Chairperson, a position he held in the 2024/2025 term, while Councillor Billee Fitzpatrick emerged as Deputy Chairperson, bringing fresh vigour to the council’s top brass.
The Finance Committee also maintained a steady hand, with Councillor Sipho Shongwe retaining his seat as Chairperson. Councillor Kenny Kunene was elected Deputy Chairperson, and Councillor Makhosazana Nxumalo joined the committee as a member, completing the financial oversight team.
Speaking after the vote, Mabuza expressed gratitude for the renewed vote of confidence from his fellow Councillors. He reportedly pledged to steer the council with “clear eyes, steady hands and an open heart,” promising that the town’s residents would continue to see results, not just rhetoric.
“This is not about me; it’s about Malkerns. We’re rolling up our sleeves and getting back to work. Let the progress speak for itself,” he was quoted as saying.
Newly elected Deputy Chairperson Fitzpatrick described the moment as a “call to duty,” reportedly committing to support the council’s agenda with energy, vision and a listening ear. “I’m not here to warm a seat. I’m here to move with purpose. Expect motion, not commotion,” she said, lighting up the room with her bold declaration.
Meanwhile, Finance Committee Chairperson Sipho Shongwe welcomed his re-election with calm confidence, reportedly saying the committee would continue to guard the town’s finances like a hawk. “Accountability is the name of the game,” he stated. “We are not just counting cents, we’re making every cent count.”
With the new council firmly in place, residents of Malkerns can expect a blend of experience and new ideas to shape local governance in the year ahead.
Council Leadership Line-up:
Chairperson: Councillor Bongani Mabuza
Deputy Chairperson: Councillor Billee Fitzpatrick
Finance Committee Chairperson: Councillor Sipho Shongwe
Finance Committee Deputy Chairperson: Councillor Kenny Kunene
Finance Committee Member: Councillor Makhosazana Nxumalo
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