LESUFI WINS ROUND ONE: ANC PREMIER SURVIVES NO-CONFIDENCE MOTION

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi.

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

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has emerged victorious after the Democratic Alliance's (DA) motion of no confidence against him failed to gain traction in the provincial legislature.

The motion, which accused Lesufi of mishandling corruption allegations and negligence, was defeated as most parties in the legislature refused to support the DA's proposal.

In a significant blow to the DA, only their members voted in favour of removing Lesufi from office, while the rest of the parties, including those in the opposition, rallied behind him. The Freedom Front Plus chose to abstain from the vote, dealing a major setback to the DA's efforts to unseat Lesufi.

Speaking after the results were announced, Lesufi expressed his gratitude to the parties that stood by him, saying he would continue to work tirelessly for the people of Gauteng. The outcome of the motion has been seen as a major victory for the ANC in the province, with many predicting that Lesufi's position is now more secure than ever.

The DA had cited Lesufi's handling of the Tembisa Hospital tenders and the establishment of the crime prevention wardens as reasons for the no-confidence motion. However, the majority of parties in the legislature were unconvinced, with some labelling the motion as "frivolous" and pointing out that the DA had helped elect Lesufi just last year.

The result is seen as a significant setback for the DA in Gauteng, with many questioning their strategy and timing in bringing the motion. As one opposition party member put it, "The DA has shot itself in the foot with this one. They've only made Lesufi stronger."

Lesufi's survival is also seen as a boost for the ANC in Gauteng, which has been facing internal strife and criticism in recent months. With Lesufi now secure in his position, the party is likely to focus on its election campaign, with the 2026 local government elections just around the corner.

As the news broke, Lesufi took to social media to thank his supporters, saying, "I am humbled by the show of support from my colleagues and the people of Gauteng. I will continue to work tirelessly for the people of this great province."