The DA in the Free State says the ANC is changing faces in leadership but fails to improve the livelihoods of people.

The DA’s Roy Jankielsohn said this after the swearing-in of MaQueen Letsoha Mathae as the new Premier of the Free State at the Fourth Raadsaal in Bloemfontein on Friday (14/6).

Jankielsohn expressed scepticism about Mathae's potential to bring significant change to the province. He pointed out that during Mathae's tenure as MEC for Community Safety, Roads, and Transport, the department faced numerous issues. “Some of the testing stations still do not have pay points and are not up to the standard required, and people continue to die on the roads,” he said, casting doubt on her ability to improve service delivery as a premier.

Despite his criticism, Jankielsohn extended congratulations to Mathae, expressing hope that she would exceed her performance as MEC in her new role.

Mathae was elected unopposed after the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) endorsed her candidacy. She succeeds Mxolisi Dukwana, who replaced Sisi Ntombela last year. The ANC Provincial Women's League lauded Mathae's appointment, highlighting her long-standing commitment to women's empowerment and her decorated history within the party.

 ’Her passion for women's empowerment has earned her recognition, respect’

Kelebogile Thulo, the provincial spokesperson for the ANCWL, praised Mathae as a stalwart member since the early 1990s, emphasising her dedication to the struggle for women's rights. "Her passion for women's empowerment has earned her recognition and respect within the movement," Thulo stated.

Alongside Mathae’s appointment, Ntombizanele Sifuba was re-elected as Speaker of the Provincial Legislature. Sifuba, nominated by Mathabo Leeto and seconded by Saki Mokoena, secured 16 votes against her opponent Jafter Mokoena, who received 8 votes. Six members, including those from the EFF, abstained from voting.

Mamiki Maboya was uncontested for the Deputy Speaker position. Ace Magashule, leader of the African Congress Transformation, was notably absent due to his court appearance regarding the controversial R255 million asbestos roofing case.

Sifuba expressed gratitude for the support and confidence shown in her leadership. Reflecting on her first term, she noted the advantage of her accumulated experience. “I know the rules, I know what to do. I have learned a lot during the first term, and I believe I have already put the systems in place. I'm not going to struggle; we are just going to work,” she affirmed.

‘We are going to work together as women in serving our communities’

Sifuba also expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Premier Mathae, underscoring the significance of their roles as women leaders in the province. “I am very sure we are going to work together as women, with her leading the legislative arm of the state and me leading the provincial executive arm, in serving our communities,” Sifuba added.

In her inaugural speech as Premier, Mathae conveyed deep gratitude for the trust placed in her and the ANC by the people of the Free State. She acknowledged the contributions of her predecessor, Mxolisi Dukwana, and emphasised her commitment to serving the province with humility and dedication.

“The people of the Free State thank you a million times for your trust in the oldest liberation movement, the African National Congress. Once again, you have affirmed that the ANC is the only trust for the people,” Mathae declared.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg