Noqoli quits council to go into business

DA councillor Thobani Noqoli has resigned his seat to pursue a career in business.

This leaves a vacancy in the DA caucus.

DA Eastern Cape leader Nqaba Bhanga confirmed that the party had received Noqoli’s resignation two weeks ago.

Noqoli, who also serves on the municipal public accounts committee, said his resignation was necessary as his new business career would require travelling, which would affect the DA and its coalition partners in voting in council.

He declined to disclose details about the business but said he would be entering the transport sector.

“I was a partner at a jazz bar, but because I did not want any controversy with being a leader [as well as] selling alcohol, I resigned to focus on politics,” Noqoli said.

“Now I want to focus on [this new business].”

Noqoli was picked as a PR councillor in 2011 and was reelected in 2016.

“My time as a DA councillor has been interesting as we are given the platform to debate and share differences.

“I am only resigning as a councillor. I will remain a [DA] member,” he said.

The 2016 council brawl had been the highlight of his career and an eye-opener into how intense council work could get. Bhanga wished Noqoli well. “He is going [into] business – he’s got a good opportunity, so we are happy for him,” Bhanga said.

“Noqoli has received a big opportunity and is venturing on to bigger things – he is a good man and we wish him all the best.

“He has worked very hard for the party.”

Bhanga said the DA would advertise the vacancy starting on Tuesday.