In a significant political development, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced a minority government, incorporating members from the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Rise Mzansi, and the Patriotic Alliance (PA), after the Democratic Alliance (DA) withdrew from negotiations. This reshuffle aims to bring stability and unity to the province amidst ongoing political challenges.

On Wednesday night, Lesufi unveiled his Executive Cabinet, marking a new chapter in Gauteng’s governance. The new members of the 7th administration took their oaths in Johannesburg, solidifying the government of provincial unity.

The cabinet features notable new MECs, including the IFP’s Bonginkosi Ndlovu, Rise Mzansi’s Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, and the PA’s Sheila Mary Peters. Despite their small representation, these parties have been allocated one seat each in the cabinet. The African National Congress (ANC) dominates the cabinet with seven seats out of the total ten, showcasing their significant influence in the provincial government.

Here is the comprehensive list of the Gauteng Executive Council:

• Bonginkosi Ndlovu – eGov (IFP)
• Lebogang Maile – Finance (ANC)
• Matome Chialone – Education and Sports (ANC)
• Vuyiswa Ramokgopa – Agriculture and Rural Development (Rise Mzansi)
• Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko – Health (ANC)
• Jacob Mamabolo – Infrastructure and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) (ANC)
• Kedibone Tihabela – Roads and Transport (ANC)
• Tasneem Motara – Human Settlement (ANC)
• Faith Mazibuko – Social Development (ANC)
• Sheila Mary Peters – Environment (PA)

Lesufi expressed his confidence in the new team, emphasizing that “the work starts now.” The Community Safety portfolio will operate directly from his office, highlighting the administration’s focus on addressing safety and security concerns in the province.

This announcement follows the breakdown of negotiations between the ANC and DA, with the DA officially pulling out on Wednesday. The DA cited disagreements over the terms of positions within the proposed unity government as the reason for their withdrawal.

“After robust engagements, and negotiations stretching over weeks, we have declined to take up seats on the African National Congress’ (ANC) terms, and will not form part of the Executive of the Gauteng Government of Provincial Unity (GPU),” the DA stated. The party expressed its commitment to taking on the role of opposition in the legislature, reinforcing its dedication to holding the provincial government accountable.

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