– The newly appointed Mpumalanga provincial cabinet faces the urgent task of restoring public trust and addressing pressing challenges following recent election results. The ANC, having secured 51.15% of the vote compared to 70.58% in 2019, aims to govern independently without coalition partners.
Premier Mandla Ndlovu, announcing his cabinet on Tuesday, June 18, called on his team to redouble efforts in delivering essential services. “Our people have spoken, and we got the message that they yearn for sustainable quality services. They yearn for portable water, improved sanitation facilities, improved road infrastructure, a safe environment, good health services, to name a few,” the Premier said. “These services will never be brought by mere speeches. We need to go beyond our comfort zones and deliver these services to our people together.”
Key changes include separating the provincial treasury from economic development, merging human settlements with co-operative governance and traditional affairs (CoGTA), and appointing Bonakele Majuba to treasury. Sasekani Manzini remains in health, while Chathrine Dlamini assumes education and Thulasizwe Thomo oversees public works and transport.
Lindiwe Ntshalintshali’s departure from social development sees Brenda Moeketsi taking over, and Nompumelelo Hlophe heads agriculture, rural development, land, and environmental affairs. Makhosazane Masilela assumes economic development and tourism, and Fidel Mlombo takes charge of culture, sports, and recreation. Khesani Jackie Macie replaces Vusi Shongwe in community safety, security, and liaison.
The DA criticized Manzini’s retention and the addition of CoGTA to Speed Mashilo’s responsibilities. “We oppose the reappointment of Sasekani Manzini in the health portfolio. Our healthcare facilities are on a downward spiral. Therefore, retaining Manzini might completely collapse the health department,” said Bosman Grobler, caucus leader in the legislature. “Adding CoGTA to Mashilo’s fold is illogical. This is one critical portfolio that needs excellent supervision and diligence, municipalities in the province are on the brink of collapsing.”
“We have absolute faith in their capabilities to run the legislature with the decorum it deserves and most importantly hold the executive council to account on behalf of the people Mpumalanga,” said provincial spokesperson Sasekani Manzini.
HC archive: Mandla Ndlovu expects his newly appointed cabinet to make concerted efforts to improve the lives of Mpumalanga residents.
