Community Leaders Hold Press Conference to Protest City Council Decision

By Janell Williams

"Recall the vote!" roared throughout the parking lot as community leaders and activists gathered Wednesday, Mar. 12, 2025, to protest a recent city council decision that they say undermines the will of the voters. The press conference, organized by the Columbus NAACP chapter and the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance (IMA), featured impassioned speeches from prominent figures condemning the council’s controversial move.

A City Council meeting held on Tuesday, Mar. 11, 2025, ended with the untraditional and sudden appointment of John Anker to fill the vacant seat of At Large Councilor Judy Thomas and numerous erroneous allegations of mismanagement against City Manager Isaiah Hugley, calling for his termination.

National NAACP member Ed DuBose addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic principles. “Let’s put this in perspective,” DuBose said. “John Anker lost his race. He had an opportunity to be a city council member in a runoff, and he lost to Travis Chambers. How dare seven city council members subvert the will of the voters?”

Reverend Dr. Johnny Flakes, president of the IMA, echoed these concerns, calling the decision a direct affront to the electorate. “This is not just about one election,” Flakes stated. “This is about justice, fairness, and ensuring the people’s voice is heard.”

Community members at the press conference expressed outrage and vowed to hold the council accountable. Juanita Taylor, a Columbus resident, voiced her frustration. “This is unfair to all the citizens in Columbus. We should have had a special election and let the people decide.”

Attendees stressed the importance of civic engagement and urged voters to respond at the ballot box. “If we don’t stand up now, what message does that send for the future? We cannot allow our voices to be ignored.” said Marquese "Skinny" Averett. “At the end of the day, the councilpersons have shown us where they stand, so it's upon us to take their actions very seriously and hold them accountable.”

The press conference concluded with a call to action, encouraging residents to demand transparency and fairness in local government. Community members are encouraged to continue their advocacy at the upcoming City Council meeting on Tuesday, Mar. 25, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the City Services Center located at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, GA 31906.