Ward 58 councillor Katherine Christie has quit to take up a position as a DA member of parliament, following this month's general elections.

Her last day in office was Thursday June 13 and she was sworn in as an MP on Friday June 14.

Ms Christie, of Rondebosch, was elected as councillor in the 2021 municipal elections (“Meet your Ward 58 councillor,” Southern Suburbs Tatler, December 2, 2021). The ward covers parts of Claremont, Rondebosch and Kenilworth.

“My passion is to see a fairer country," she said of her new appointment, referring to the country's high levels of inequality, unemployment and child malnutrition. “I am passionate about seeing growth in equality and opportunities, I want to see the economy boosted and strengthened, I want to see a business-friendly environment created so that business leaders and entrepreneurs can start and grow the business and employ people."

She said she would approach her new position with humility and an open mind. “Our country is somewhat on a knife edge, I want to see the 'ship' turn around."

She said she had had the chance to work with some fine people during her time as councillor.

“I worked with the different civic associations and my ward committee to get things done and with some hard-working city officials who worked hard to get services done so that residents have the best value for money for their rates paid."

Harfield Village Association (HVA) chairperson James Fernie said Ms Christie had been an outstanding councillor.

“She has been professional, extremely attentive, and she has received positive feedback from Harfield Village residents. We are sad to see her go though wish her the best of luck in serving in the National Assembly."

Belvedere East Civic Association chairperson Taheera Shaboodien said: “She is always putting people first, always doing her best to help everyone who calls on her."

Ms Christie’s departure will trigger a by-election for the ward, but Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) spokesperson Alvina February said they were unaware of the vacancy.

Proportional representation councillor Paddie Chapple will be filling for Ms Christie until her successor is elected. The public can email any ward-related matters to ward assistant Juline Peters at Juline.Peters@CapeTown.gov.za

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