Until he decided to enter the world of politics, Herman Mashaba was better known as a successful businessman who rose to prominence from an impoverished background. His motivation to join the DA, and ultimately run for Mayor of Johannesburg, was born from a strong desire to stop what he referred to as the “destruction of South Africa” under the ANC.

Fast forward to the end of 2019, and Mashaba, who enjoyed an approval rating of over 70 percent, suddenly resigned as Mayor as a result of irreconcilable differences with the country’s official opposition party. What was it like leading a coalition government in South Africa’s powerhouse? How did the ANC take to being in opposition? And what were the challenges working with the EFF?

In The Accidental Mayor, written by his former Chief of Staff Michael Beaumont, Mashaba considers his controversial, eventful and challenging three years in office, and a possible alternative for South Africa’s future.

Wits Business School is excited to host the virtual launch of The Accidental Mayor, and would love you to join us for an online conversation between Herman Mashaba,Michael Beaumont and WBS’s Mills Soko, Professor of International Business and Strategy.

Booking is essential. Login details will be sent to registered attendees via email.

We look forward to hosting you!