“We cannot let the people of the Free State down,” was the stark message sent by the province's new Premier, Queen Letsogha-Masae, to the new Executive Council members. Queen Letsogha-Masae announced the nine-member Executive Council in OR Tamboville, Bloemfontein.
She says the newly appointed Cabinet will foster ethical government and will not tolerate corruption.
“Mama Action”, as she is called by many, did not mince words when announcing the members of her Executive Council who will be serving in her seventh administration.
Just like when he headed the Community Safety Department, Letsoha Masae made it clear that he would not be working with office-based people.
The newly elected premier says members of the executive branch must work on the ground as they were appointed to serve the people of the Free State.
“We cannot let you down. We earn, we work, we have responsibilities. We are workers too. We are representatives of the people, but we really need to work and serve the people. I have met with this team several times to assure you that we will not let the people of the Free State down. The mission is clear. Our mission is to be with the people of the Free State.”
Four MECs are returning to the new provincial executive. Dibolero Manse will continue to head the department of public works and infrastructure, while Mathabo Liete will move from the department of health to the department of social development. ANC deputy speaker Ketso Makume will head the department of finance, tourism and economic development.
Letsoha Masae says the new MEC reflects the government's determination to tackle service delivery and unemployment issues.
“Firstly, I must reiterate what I said at my inauguration – this administration is committed to fighting corruption, building an ethical nation and delivering quality services to our people. My government will have no hesitation in taking firm action against individuals who undermine effective and efficient service delivery. The team I am announcing today reflects our determination to address key priorities of this government, improve public services and ensure a sustainable future for all our people.”
The number of ministries was reduced to nine and the ministries of finance and economic development were merged. Former premier and ANC president Mxolisi Dukwana was not on the list of MECs.
Surprisingly, Zanele Shifuba, who was re-elected as speaker last week, is now MEC for sport, while deputy speaker Mamiki Maboya is the new MEC for education.
Labour federation COSATU provincial secretary Monyatso Maharatsi is MEC for health, while Elsabe Lokman has returned to the executive committee as MEC for agriculture.
Former Free State ANC spokesperson Jabu Mbalula will take up the post of community safety.
The swearing-in ceremony for the new MEPs will take place on Sunday.
7th Parliament | Newly elected Premier of the Free State
