Premier Panyaza Lesufi has named Tasneem Motara, the MEC for Human Settlements, as acting premier of Gauteng from June 9 to June 15, 2025. The appointment follows constitutional guidelines under Section 131(1)(a) and Section 13.
Lesufi is currently on a working visit to China to finalize a major trade agreement with Hunan province. His spokesperson, Sizwe Pamla, stated that the trip fulfills a promise made during the premier’s 2025 State of the Province Address.
The agreement aims to create new trade opportunities for small businesses in Gauteng, giving them access to Hunan’s market of over 66 million people. The deal is part of efforts to reduce unemployment, a key focus of the provincial government’s development plan.
Pamla added that the initiative supports South Africa’s National Development Plan 2030, which highlights small businesses as vital for economic growth and job creation. During Lesufi’s absence, Motara will oversee all provincial government duties.
Earlier this year, Lesufi outlined 13 major challenges facing Gauteng, including water shortages, crime, power cuts, and unemployment. The provincial government is working on solutions aligned with national development goals.