Cllr. Huw David (Lab, Pyle, Kenfig Hill & Cefn Cribwr) is on course to remain Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council after narrowly winning a vote to remain leader of the council’s Labour group.
A reliable source has revealed that the vote – which took place yesterday evening – was tied several times before Cllr. David won via a blind envelope lot. The alternative leadership candidate was reportedly Cllr. Martyn Jones (Lab, Garw Valley).
The sitting Cabinet Member for Social Services, Cllr. Jane Gebbie (Lab, Pyle, Kenfig Hill & Cefn Cribwr), was elected to become deputy group leader. She replaces Cllr. Hywel Williams (Lab, Blackmill).
Despite the win, it leaves Cllr. David in an awkward position after seemingly losing the confidence of half of Labour councillors.
There have been murmurings of discontent about leadership at the council for some time. These include concerns about the council’s handling of the Arbed scandal, how the personal interests of Cabinet Members have been managed and the seemingly inevitable investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder of Logan Mwangi.
Bridgend Council is set to officially appoint councillors to key positions at their Annual General Meeting (AGM) this afternoon.
It’s unclear at this point as to who is expected to be appointed to the new Cabinet. Due to the high turnover of councillors and loss of some experienced members the potential pool is likely to be limited.
