Mpumalanga Premier Thabang Makwetla has become the first provincial leader to introduce changes to his cabinet following the ANC's 52nd national conference in Polokwane, which introduced a massive power shift in the organisation.
Makwetla stunned everyone on Wednesday when he announced seven changes to his provincial cabinet. Observers said the changes were designed to garner support for the premier at the forthcoming ANC provincial congress, where he is expected to come under pressure to step down.
The biggest casualty in the reshuffle was William Lubisi, who lost his job as health MEC. Lubisi has been replaced by Mmathulare Coleman, who until Wednesday was the MEC for sports and recreation.
The big winner was ANC whip Jack Mthembu, a known supporter of ANC President Jacob Zuma, who returns to the provincial executive as MEC for transport.
The provincial government said the changes were made "as part of an ongoing effort to enhance government work and to accelerate service delivery in the spirit of 'all hands on the deck' for the remaining period to the elections next year".
The full changes are:
- Former MEC for culture, sport and recreation Jabu Mahlangu has been assigned the finance department.
- Former finance MEC Mmathulare Coleman has been assigned the education department.
- Former roads and transport MEC David Mabuza has been assigned the agriculture and land administration department.
- Former safety and security MEC Fish Mahlalela has been assigned the health and social services department.
- Former education MEC Siphosezwe Masango has been assigned the safety and security department.
- Former agriculture and land administration MEC Dina Pule has been assigned the culture, sport and recreation department.