Gauteng's Political Storm: Lesufi Faces Backlash Over Cabinet Reshuffle

ANC Youth League President Collen Malatji has slammed Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi for snubbing ANCYL following his recent cabinet reshuffle.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

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ANC Youth League President Collen Malatji has slammed Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi for snubbing ANCYL in the cabinet reshuffle, saying the youth league should demand answers from the premier.

"You must go to the Prime Minister of Gauteng to ask for lights, you will get them," Malatji said, adding that the youth league must make an appointment with Lesufi to discuss their concerns.

Malatji also called for Lebohang Maile to be considered as premier, citing his decisiveness and leadership abilities."We must request National to put Lebohang Maile as the Premier of Gauteng, he has proven beyond doubt that he's way above those that we think are in charge, we don't want to be Led by cowards, we want to be led by Lebohang Maile because he's very decisive," Malatji said.

The controversy surrounds Lesufi's appointment of EFF's Nkululeko Dunga as Finance MEC, sparking divisions within the ANC and backlash from alliance partners. SANCO has called for Lesufi's resignation, describing the move as a "betrayal of voters".

The ANC Veterans' League has also expressed dismay at Dunga's appointment, citing concerns about governance and accountability.

ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has confirmed that concerns raised by the Veterans' League will be addressed, saying a report will be submitted to the party's national leadership.

Political analysts argued that the backlash is more about internal power struggles than governance, calling it an "orchestrated manoeuvre against Panyaza Lesufi and Nkululeko Dunga".

Another analyst, described the appointment as a "political own goal", questioning the logic of placing an opposition figure in charge of Gauteng's finances. The EFF has defended Dunga's appointment, citing his experience and commitment to representing the working class.

The reshuffle has exposed deep divisions within the ANC, with Lesufi's popularity reportedly dwindling and his support within the party evaporating.

DA Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga criticized the move, saying Lesufi is prioritizing his own position over the needs of Gauteng residents.