Former Liberal Party MP appointed Liverpool Council CEO

Liverpool Council has appointed recently retired senior Liberal Party MP John Ajaka as its new chief executive officer.

Mr Ajaka, 66, was a member of the NSW Legislative Council from 2007 to 2021, representing the Liberal Party.

He served as a minister in several portfolios, including Ageing, Disability Services and Multiculturism, and was the first Liberal Party Lebanese Australian member of an Australian parliament.

However, his appointment is controversial, because it is rare that former politicians are appointed to council CEO posts.

In this case it means Liverpool Council will be run by a Liberal party mayor and a CEO who is a former Liberal minister and MP.

Mr Ajaka will commence in the role next Monday, December 12.

Nathan Hagarty, the Labor leader on Liverpool Council, along with his party colleague Charisma Kaliyanda, left the chamber before the vote was taken on Mr Ajaka’s appointment.

“It’s imperative public servants are seen as apolitical, especially a Council’s most senior public servant,’’ Mr Hagarty told the South West Voice this morning.

“Whether perceived or real, there is a clear conflict of interest here.

“Given that conflict of interest, Mr Ajaka’s political history and how recent it was, I could not support his appointment and chose to leave the Council chamber,’’ Mr Hagarty said.

“Council has now made its decision, I congratulate Mr Ajaka on his appointment and will seek to work constructively with him for the greater good of Liverpool.’’

Liverpool Council issued a media releasing announcing Mr Ajaka’s posting just after lunch yesterday (Wednesday).

“Following an extensive recruitment process, all our councillors unanimously agreed to appoint Mr John Ajaka,” Mayor Ned Mannoun said.

“Mr Ajaka is a man respected by all sides of politics and the right choice to lead our council as we continue to embrace our ‘Back to Basics’ strategy and deliver more frontline services to our ratepayers.”

The mayor said that Mr Ajaka would bring a wealth of talent and experience to the role.

“John has served as the Parliamentary Secretary for Roads and Transport, Minister for Ageing, Disability, Youth Volunteering and Multiculturalism, as well as President of the NSW Legislative Council. He is also an experienced solicitor and has been a partner of his own firm.’’