Lesufi fires and reshuffles Gauteng officials over R1.8bn budget crisis
Premier Lesufi briefs media on latest forensic reports
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has taken decisive action against several provincial heads of department following a damning forensic report that uncovered nearly R1.8 billion in unspent funds and widespread failures to meet service delivery targets.
Speaking at a media briefing on Sunday, Lesufi expressed frustration over the poor performance of certain departments amid ongoing challenges in the province.
“With the service delivery issues we’re facing, we simply cannot afford departments that consistently miss their performance targets,” Lesufi stated. “Some audit findings highlighted unacceptable inefficiencies. As a result, I’ve decided to reshuffle departmental leadership and, in some cases, remove heads of department from their posts entirely.”
The announcement coincided with the release of several forensic reports compiled by the provincial forensic audit unit under the Office of the Premier. These reports are part of Gauteng’s broader push for transparency and accountability in governance, following Lesufi’s June disclosure of findings from 47 investigations into provincial operations.
Read also: Lesufi releases second batch of forensic reports amid transparency push
Key Changes in Department Leadership
- E-Government: Masabata Mutlaneng
- Infrastructure Development: Rufus Mmutlana
- Provincial Treasury: Ncumisa Mnyani (retained)
- Cooperative Governance & Traditional Affairs: Darion Barclay (retained)
- Transport: Thulani Mdadane (retained – position to be advertised)
- Human Settlements: Puleng Gadebe-Mabaso (retained)
- Agriculture & Rural Development: Khululekile Mase (retained)
Acting Appointments
- Environment: Matthew Sathekge
- Sports, Arts, Culture & Recreation: Mpho Nawa
- Social Development: Phumla Sekhonyane
- Education: Albert Chaane
- Community Safety: Pending
- Health: Pending
Additionally, Motlatjo Moholwa has been appointed as the new Head of Department for Economic Development. Moholwa brings extensive experience from roles including chief economist for the City of Johannesburg, lead economist at the Land Bank, and deputy director-general in both Mpumalanga and Gauteng’s economic development departments.
Lesufi had previously hinted in May that a significant shake-up was coming, but delayed action to avoid disrupting ongoing audits by the Auditor-General. Now, with the forensic findings in hand, he says the reshuffle marks a “fresh start” for provincial governance.
