Lesufi’s cabinet shake-up: Power play to secure ANC provincial chair post, claims opposition

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The Democratic Alliance Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga says that Panyaza Lesufi’s attempt to keep his position as the ANC provincial chairperson prompted a cabinet reshuffle.

Lesufi appointed Nkululeko Dunga, leader of the EFF in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, as MEC for Finance, while Lebogang Maile has been appointed MEC for Education.

This decision by Premier Lesufi, according to Msimanga, will not benefit Gauteng residents and aims to involve the EFF in the executive branch to secure an alliance for the upcoming local government elections.

“Lesufi aims to challenge the ANC’s leadership and the Government of National Unity (GNU), making significant sacrifices to the EFF to maintain his position and influence in Ekurhuleni.

“He has prioritized EFF threats of destabilization over municipal efficiency and basic service delivery after Dunga’s removal as the MMC for Finance in Ekurhuleni.

“Lesufi’s decision reflects a disregard for the needs of the residents of this province.

“He should prioritize ensuring all departments provide basic services rather than making arbitrary changes to his executive to accommodate a specific political party,” he remarked.

Msimanga expressed concerns regarding Dunga’s appointment to a key executive role, noting that his previous removal as MMC of Finance in Ekurhuleni brings into question his suitability for the new position.

Major obstacle to provincial chairmanship

He continued, “Furthermore, there was an internal reshuffle through the exchange of portfolios between the MEC of Health and Social Development, which will worsen service delivery.

“The reshuffled former MEC for Health, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, presents a major obstacle to Panyaza for the provincial chairmanship at the forthcoming ANC Gauteng Congress, making her a potential threat to the premier due to her influential position.

“On the other hand, Maile’s move to another powerful and well-resourced portfolio of education further shows how Panyaza is using these positions to garner support and favour for his re-election.”

Msimanga clarified that following the unsuccessful negotiations in 2024, the DA has not been consulted by Lesufi or any ANC leaders, contradicting his claims made during the press briefing.

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“We will continue to demand that the Premier make public the lifestyle audits of all MECs. We can’t have an executive in this province that was formed just to please the minority GNU parties.

We will monitor the MEC for Finance’s work to ensure every rand is spent wisely and prevent any misuse of public funds for personal gain,” he stated.