Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has survived a motion of no confidence. The Democratic Alliance (DA) brought the motion against him in the provincial legislature on Friday, 14 November. The majority of parties voted against the motion, ensuring Lesufi’s survival.
The final vote count was 54 against the motion. Only 24 members of the provincial legislature (MPLs) voted in favour. One member abstained from the vote.
The DA’s motion cited several key issues, including the unlawful establishment of crime prevention wardens. It also referenced corruption allegations at Tembisa Hospital. General corruption and unemployment were also listed as reasons.
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Opposition parties reject the DA’s motion
Most parties did not support the DA’s bid. The African National Congress (ANC), Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and others rejected it. They described the motion as frivolous and lacking substance.
Parties criticised the DA for its timing. They noted the DA had supported Lesufi’s nomination last year, during the legislature’s first sitting after the elections. The ANC called the motion an attempt to destabilise the provincial government.
Lesufi has faced scrutiny over his job creation programmes. These include the Nasi iSpani and AmaPanyaza initiatives. The DA claims these programmes have collapsed.
Image: Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi. (Lubabalo Lesolle/Gallo Images)
