Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced a significant reshuffle of the provincial Executive Council, confirming the inclusion of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the provincial government. The move marks a notable shift in the political configuration of the province and is aimed at strengthening governance following mounting concerns over instability within the Government of Provincial Unity.
The decision follows approval from the African National Congress (ANC) national leadership and comes amid tensions within the multi-party arrangement formed after the 2024 general elections. The 7th Administration in Gauteng was initially made up of the ANC, Patriotic Alliance (PA), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and Rise Mzansi, collectively governing an 80-member legislature.
However, cracks in the coalition began to show in recent months. A failed motion of no confidence brought by the Democratic Alliance (DA), as well as delays in passing the province’s Adjustment Budget, highlighted internal disagreements among coalition partners. These challenges raised concerns about the government’s ability to function effectively and deliver services.
In response, Lesufi has reconfigured his cabinet, bringing in the EFF as a new partner in the executive. Among the key appointments is Nkululeko Dunga, who takes over as Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Finance. The inclusion of the EFF is expected to shift the balance of power within the provincial administration and could influence policy direction going forward.
Other notable appointments in the reshuffled cabinet include Lebogang Maile as MEC for Education, Sports, Arts and Culture, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela as MEC for Transport, and Vuyiswa Ramokgopa representing Rise Mzansi in Economic Development. Faith Mazibuko continues in Health, while Tasneem Motara oversees Human Settlements. Ewan Botha of the Patriotic Alliance takes on Environment, Jacob Mamabolo leads Infrastructure, and Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko is assigned to Social Development. Bonginkosi Dlamini of the IFP has been appointed to head e-Government.
Lesufi indicated that the reconfiguration is intended to stabilise governance, improve coordination among departments, and ensure the province can meet its service delivery commitments. He emphasized the need for unity and collaboration among political parties to address pressing socio-economic challenges facing Gauteng residents.
In addition to the cabinet changes, Lesufi confirmed that the provincial government is preparing for the upcoming Gauteng Investment Conference (GIC) 2026, scheduled for 9 April at Melrose Arch. The conference aims to convert investment pledges into tangible, bankable projects aligned with the province’s development priorities.
The reshuffle signals a new phase in Gauteng’s governance, with political observers closely watching how the expanded executive will navigate coalition dynamics while delivering on economic growth and service delivery.