Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's latest changes to his provincial cabinet has received support from the ANC's Provincial Task Team (PTT).
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
The ANC Gauteng Provincial Task Team (PTT) has welcomed the recent changes to the provincial cabinet, which includes the unveiling of EFF provincial chairperson, Nkululeko Dunga, as the new MEC for Finance and Economic Development.
Dunga, who is expected to be sworn in on Thursday afternoon, was introduced during a media briefing by the Premier on Wednesday. The cabinet reshuffle also included the removal of Matome Chiloane as MEC for education, sports, arts and culture, a move that Lesufi referred to as 'painful but necessary'.
Chiloane, who was the surprise omission in the new cabinet, has made way for former MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Lebogang Maile, while MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, is set to take over the Department of Social Development, with MEC for Public Safety, Faith Mazibuko, taking over Health and Wellness.
"I must be honest, I am hurt by MEC Chiloane. He has done nothing wrong. Unfortunately, in politics, especially when you do not have the numbers, such things happen. If you have a vacancy, then you have to put someone there," Lesufi said.
On the choice of Dunga as MEC, Lesufi revealed that following talks with the EFF, and with Dunga having served as MMC for finance in the city of Ekurhuleni previously, this was the only position that would have influenced the talks with the red berets.
"As for the choice of finance, we respect our partners. We do not want to invite someone into government and undermine their role...We have confidence in him," he said.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) provincial chairperson Nkululeko Dunga has been appointed as Gauteng's MEC for Finance.
Image: EFF Gauteng/X
Speaking on behalf of the ANC Gauteng PTT, Mzi Khumalo welcomed the Premier's decision as part of efforts to strengthen governance and improve service delivery across the province, adding that this intervention comes at an important time for Gauteng.
"The ANC Gauteng PTT views this development as a necessary and responsive step to ensure that government remains effective, focused, and capable of meeting the expectations of the people of Gauteng, particularly following the successful passing of the 2025/2026 Adjustment Budget, which provides the necessary mandate and resources to drive this work forward," said Khumalo.
The EFF also welcomed the inclusion of its provincial chairperson in the provincial legislature.
"The appointment marks a progressive step towards strengthening government in the province and ensuring stability in the administration. I further confirm the EFF's participation in the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) in line with our long-standing organisational principle, that we will form part of government at both provincial and national level, provided our key principles are upheld," the party said in a statement.
As coalition talks with the MK Party continue, Lesufi hinted at the potential for more changes to the provincial legislature, emphasising a focus on cooperative governance and effective collaboration with existing partners, including the EFF.
Khumalo said: "The ANC Gauteng PTT remains confident that this reconfiguration will contribute positively towards improving the capacity of government to act decisively and effectively in the interest of Gauteng residents. The PTT will continue to support all efforts aimed at ensuring that the Gauteng Provincial Government remains responsive, accountable, and firmly focused on service delivery and development."
siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za