Premier Makhura announces compromise Executive Council

29 May 2019

The DA notes the Executive Council announced by Gauteng Premier, David Makhura.

It is concerning, but not surprising, that the list includes a number of individuals who have previously had a dismal track record in government.

The appointment of Faith Mazibuko as MEC for Community Safety is an absolute disaster. How can she uphold law and order after her racist rants against staff members over Combi Courts just before the election? This was an abuse of state resources for electioneering purposes if ever there was.

The appointment of Lebogang Maile as MEC for Human Settlements, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is without a doubt a step in the wrong direction. This portfolio has been mismanaged by successive MECs leaving the most needy in the province homeless. His appointment is clearly a move to keep Makhura’s foes within the ANC close at hand.

Jacob Mamabolo’s new role as MEC for Roads and Transport leaves much to be desired. In his previous capacity as MEC for Infrastructure Development, his many speeches and boasts amounted to very little substance. Under his watch, the Bank of Lisbon fire occurred while many faults with other provincially owned buildings were identified but no steps were taken to address these life threatening issues.

Panyazi Lesufi is a spin doctor. What does he know about Finance? The DA will ask Moroka Swallows whether they will provide a reference as to his capabilities.

Many of the other MECs are newcomers and are yet to be prove their ability to navigate the complexities of Gauteng and its needs.

The DA will make sure that this administration gets to work and improves the lives of the people of Gauteng, especially when it comes to jobs, health, safety and stopping corruption.

The ANC is skating on a thin majority and will not be afforded any leeway to dodge accountability as they have repeatedly done in the past.

During this 6th administration, the DA will work cordially with the new executive to ensure that the people of Gauteng are placed first.

However, we will also not shy away from confronting them when they fail to uphold their constitutional mandates and are dismissive of the plight of the people of Gauteng.

Issued by Solly Msimanga, DA Gauteng Caucus Leader, 29 May 2019