Today, Thursday, 16 September 2021, a new non-political and non-partisan movement was launched positioning itself as a blueprint for ethical leadership capable of restoring dignity and taking power back to the people. ICM is a movement of independent thinkers and platform for independent candidates.

The Independent Citizen Movement (ICM) Chairperson Joe Mojapelo revealed the movement’s mayoral candidate, Reverend Chris Mathebula of Hope Restoration Ministries in Kempton Park.

Reverend Mathebula, a charismatic preacher will lead the movement to its first Local Government Elections, contesting all 112 wards of the Aerotropolis City.

Describing the launch as the turning of the tide in the political landscape, Mojapelo said the movement is anchored on the philosophy that citizens of the country has the ability to make a beneficial contribution to the nation. “If there is anything that the recent looting spree has taught us, is that people have power. If communities can organize themselves properly, they can govern themselves better”.

“We are focusing on everyday tasks citizens can undertake to serve their country and their fellow countrymen. Fundamentally, we view the community as a key pillar in the development of the country. Leaders don’t emerge because there are elections, they leave amongst us” he said.

Accepting the responsibility as mayoral candidate, Reverend Mathebula said the times of politics are over, it is time for true leaders of integrity to step forward and serve the people. This is about rebuilding our nation for a better life for all and leaving a legacy for the next generation.

“We believe that from the ashes of despair, a beautiful nation will arise. There is a South Africa of tomorrow, one that carries hope and a bright future but its prospects are determined by how we navigate today’s challenges while resolving the historical injustices,” he said.

Rev Mathebula called on responsible citizens to ensure the preservation of the brand of the country by being good and devoted citizens.

“If we are not satisfied with the performance of the politicians we voted for, we have the power as independent and devoted citizens to vote for better leaders. Voting is active participation on issues of national interest and a very effective way of finding solutions to national problems, but has to be done responsibly. If voting is your responsibility, not voting renders you irresponsible,” he said.

NB: NOTES TO THE EDITORS:

THE ICM stands for the following principles.

• A movement by all citizens regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, language, religion or belief.

• Rejection of the status quo and unethical leadership, poverty, high unemployment rate, women abuse, drug abuse, low economic growth, crime, gender based violence, corruption and all societal ills.

• Clarion call for men and women to stand against abuse of influence and power over their families, communities, profession, business, politics and religion through being devoted leaders.

• Promotion of the spirit of servanthood, engulfed by selflessness, commitment, devotion, being dependable and staying the course.

• A movement built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ as the cornerstone in whom the entire building grows into a holy temple in the Lord. We subscribe to Christian values and norms, following the mandate of the Body of Christ as given by Jesus in The Great Commission.

• Leaving a legacy for generations to come by raising an army of Independent and Devoted Citizens that will make conscious decision to build South Africa against all odds.

• Treating of people as invaluable because people matter to God.

For more information, members of the media may Contact Themba Gadebe on 0815226166/0642306559

End