Premier Panyaza Lesufi was set to announce his team of Members of the Executive Council (MECs), but ongoing conflicts between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA) have left Gauteng as the only province without an executive.
This unexpected delay has raised concerns about the province’s governance and political stability.
Following the May elections, the ANC failed to retain its majority in Gauteng, the country’s economic hub, with its support dwindling to 34%.
No other party secured an outright majority, creating a necessity for a power-sharing agreement. The political landscape has become increasingly fragmented, making coalition talks essential for forming an effective provincial government.
Speaking to the media on Monday evening, the ANC’s provincial secretary, Thembinkosi Nciza, accused the DA of attempting to exclude smaller parties from coalition discussions. “We believe that we are very fair,” he stated.
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“We are accepting what needs to happen, but we are not going to allow anybody to bully us when we have a view that is contrary to the DA.”
Nciza emphasized that the DA should not act as if they are victims being left out of the discussions.
Nciza further clarified that the ANC envisions a coalition that includes all parties, not just the ANC and DA. “It’s a government of provincial unity that must bring everybody. And that’s where we are in this province,” he affirmed.
This inclusive approach is seen as crucial for ensuring that the new executive represents a broad spectrum of political views.
The announcement of Lesufi’s team of MECs is now expected on Tuesday. The outcome of these coalition talks will be pivotal in determining the future governance of Gauteng.
As political negotiations continue, the province remains in a state of uncertainty, waiting for a resolution that will bring stability and effective leadership.
 in Gauteng has been delayed due to ongoing conflicts between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA)){kind=link}