ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula stated Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi is telling people “fairytales” about his grip on the government of provincial unity (GPU), suggesting it will collapse over time.
In July, Lesufi formed an ANC-led unity government in the province after weeks of uncertainty and heated negotiations.
The Gauteng’s seventh administration government excluded the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Lesufi said they were fine without them.
The ANC and DA had a falling out after failing to agree on the allocation of power in the province. The ANC accused the DA of making ridiculous demands.
Parties in the GPU included the IFP, Patriotic Alliance (PA), and Rise Mzansi. The ANC is in charge of seven positions and the other parties were given one portfolio each.
Addressing the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) 6th National Congress last week, Mbalula said Lesufi was bluffing about his balance of power in Gauteng. He explained how the minority government worked.
“The minority government is often the easiest and most attractive option, but it has ramifications.
“A minority government means you've got a government with all the Ministries, but in parliament, you've got political parties that are keeping you in check without your participating.
“So there’s no balance of power. Lesufi is struggling in Gauteng while busy telling you fairytales that he has it under control. He is not coping at all. That thing will fall apart with time,” he said.
The crowd groaned in disapproval of his remarks while others shouted: “What about your GNU?”
His response was: “I am telling you the truth whether you like it or not.”
Mbalula defended the Government of National Unity (GNU) saying it was a government that brought people together in pursuit of matters of national interest.
Meanwhile, Mbalula and Lesufi have reportedly been at odds over who should lead the ANC after their 2027 elective conference.
However, Lesufi denied the claims, saying he was not interested in the national ANC.
Mbalula also shot down the accusations, sending a stern warning to whoever would publicly talk about the succession of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
IOL Politics