ANC Gauteng secretary David Makhura was appointed the province’s new premier on Tuesday afternoon, replacing Nomvula Mokonyane.
Speaking at the press conference, ANC treasurer-general Zweli Mkhize announced that Makhura – who has been provincial secretary for 12 years – will not make himself available for the position at the province’s next conference because the provincial secretary position is full-time.
Makhura was the favourite of the provincial ANC leadership, which has in the past opposed President Jacob Zuma’s leadership.
A 10 percent decline in electoral votes for the party in Gauteng in this year’s election would have played a huge role in determining who gets Gauteng’s top job.
ANC Deputy secretary-general Jessie Duarte made it public that it is not a secret that the ANC is worried about Gauteng.
Late last year, Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane allegedly angered protesting residents when she made a comment to the Bekkersdal community that the ANC does not need their “dirty votes”.
This in return angered community members who got violent during their protest.
Makhura’s appointment could be seen as an attempt by the ANC to regain the province’s confidence.
Duarte announced at the conference that the new premiers are responsible for marketing their provinces and making them destinations for investments.
List of premiers:
Gauteng: David Makhura
Limpopo: Stan Mathabatha
Eastern Cape: Phumulo Masualle
Mpumalanga: David Mabuza
Free State: Ace Magashule
Northern Cape: Sylvia Lucas
KwaZulu-Natal: Senzo Mchunu
North West: Supra Mahumapelo
