Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Mayor, Nondumiso Maphazi, has resigned. African National Congress (ANC) Provincial spokesperson Mlibo Qoboshiyane confirmed that Maphazi officially stepped down as  Mayor this afternoon.

Qoboshiyane says simmering tensions and irretrievable working relationships between the ANC in the Nelson Mandela Metro region and Maphazi compelled the party to re-deploy her.

Addressing a media briefing in Port Elizabeth, Maphazi said she accepted the decision to re-deploy her. Maphazi  confirmed reports that she will be re-deployed to the Premier's Office in the Bisho Legislature.

Maphazi was re-deployed by the ANC late last week, but waited until today to step down officially. Qoboshiyane says Zanoxolo Wayile will be sworn in as the new mayor tomorrow. Ousted deputy mayor Bicks Ndoni and speaker Charmaine Williams will stay on as councilors.