Gauteng Legislature Set to Vote on Premier Lesufi’s Future Amid Controversy

Gauteng Legislature to Decide Premier Lesufi’s Fate

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi faces a pivotal moment this Friday, as the province’s legislature prepares to vote on a motion of no confidence. The motion marks the first challenge to Lesufi since forming a minority government last year and comes amid allegations of illegal governance and corruption.

The Controversy Behind the Motion

The motion follows a Public Protector finding that Lesufi established an unlawful policing initiative, Amapanyaza, also known as Gauteng Crime Wardens. The wardens were later disbanded, with Lesufi promising to “repurpose” them, potentially training some as Gauteng Traffic Wardens.

However, reports suggest that funding for training may not exist, casting doubt on the Premier’s promise. The program was initially part of the Nasi Isapni jobs initiative launched months before last year’s general elections, which aimed to boost employment through provincial projects.

Opposition parties, particularly the DA, have also accused Lesufi of allowing corruption to flourish within provincial departments, using the motion as a platform to highlight governance failures.

How the Vote Could Unfold

The outcome of the vote remains uncertain. While the DA has tabled the motion, it is unclear if they possess sufficient numbers to remove Lesufi. Smaller parties have voiced skepticism about the timing and intent of the motion, suggesting it may be more about political theatre than genuine accountability.

RISE Mzansi’s National Chairperson, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, criticised the DA for what she described as a “desperate” and politically motivated move.

“The DA is once again putting politics before people, showing a dangerous willingness to destabilise the province for its own narrow gain,” Ramokgopa said, noting the motion comes just as Gauteng prepares to host the G20 summit.

She added that the motion demonstrates “no plan for leadership, no vision for the province, and no regard for the people who depend on stable governance.”

Both the MK Party and the EFF have publicly indicated that they will not support the DA’s motion, leaving its success in doubt.

Political Stakes and Public Reaction

Social media reactions have been mixed, with some residents expressing frustration over Lesufi’s handling of the Amapanyaza program and broader governance concerns, while others view the motion as politically opportunistic.

Political analysts note that the motion comes at a sensitive time, with Gauteng in the global spotlight ahead of the G20 summit. Any instability could complicate preparations for hosting world leaders and international delegations.

Lesufi’s Position

The Premier has yet to comment directly on the motion, though his office has consistently defended initiatives like Amapanyaza as aimed at creating employment and improving provincial safety. ANC officials have signaled they will lobby allied parties to support Lesufi, underscoring the high stakes for party cohesion in Gauteng.

Friday’s vote will test the strength of Lesufi’s minority government and the balance of power in Gauteng politics. While opposition parties seize the opportunity to challenge the Premier, the outcome may ultimately hinge on smaller parties and the broader public perception of Lesufi’s leadership, governance record, and promises for provincial development.

As Gauteng prepares for the G20 summit, the province faces the dual pressures of political instability and the need to present a unified, effective leadership to the world.

{Source: The Citizen}

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