JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Jackson’s bribery scandal took center stage during the City Council meeting on Tuesday.
Some councilmembers said in light of the federal bribery case, Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba should take a leave of absence as he awaits trial.
Lumumba, Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens and Jackson City Councilman Aaron Banks, Ward 6, were indicted in connection to the bribery scandal.
“I would say to anyone caught up in anything that’s going to distract us from our jobs,” said Councilman Vernon Hartley, Ward 5.
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The council voted 3-2, with one abstaining, on a resolution for the mayor to take a leave of absence. The resolution died due to the lack of a majority vote.
“Even Stevie Wonder can see that they play in politics,” said Dr. Safiya Omari, the Chief of Staff for Lumumba.
The resolution was authored by Councilman Kenneth Stokes, Ward 3.
“I’m going to stay on the issue. She (Omari) said, ‘Stevie Wonder can see.’ We’re talking about trees on the street, ain’t been picked up in months. She told me everything is good, but she don’t live in Jackson. Uh oh!” Stokes said in reply to Omari.
“With all the disparities that we have on this council, all seven of us need to come together and think about what we are doing for the good of the city,” said Councilwoman Tina Clay, Ward 2.
Lumumba said he would not take a leave of absence no matter how the council voted.
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