ANC Youth League rejects Lesufi’s reshuffle

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi is facing criticism from the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) in the province following his recent executive reshuffle. The league is protesting the exclusion of its provincial chairperson, Ntsako Mogobe, from the new cabinet.

Gauteng Premier’s Reshuffle Sparks Dispute with ANCYL

The ANCYL has expressed its dissatisfaction with Lesufi’s decision, stating it had requested the appointment of a young person of their choosing as a Member of the Executive Council (MEC).

Lesufi’s changes included bringing in Nkululeko Dunga, the EFF’s provincial leader, as the new finance MEC. Lebogang Maile was moved from finance to education and sports, while Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko and Faith Mazibuko effectively swapped positions between the health and social development departments.

The removal of Matome Chiloane from the executive was described by Lesufi as a difficult but necessary step to secure support from the EFF for the provincial budget.

The ANCYL insists on having representation in the executive, arguing that the youth, who comprise 60% of the province’s population, are not adequately represented in governance.

“The reshuffle represents yet another missed historic opportunity to decisively advance the transformation agenda, deepen generational renewal and restore the confidence of the youth in the movement of Oliver Tambo,” said Mpume Sangweni, the league’s provincial secretary.

The league accused Lesufi of disregarding requests made at its conference for Mogobe’s inclusion, noting this was the third reshuffle where his appointment could have been considered. They claim this demonstrates a trend of marginalizing youth within the ANC.

“It is deeply regrettable that despite many engagements with the leadership of the ANC, this is the third reshuffle in which the clearly articulated and democratically adopted resolutions of the ANCYL have been deliberately ignored,” Sangweni stated.

The ANC in Gauteng has welcomed Lesufi’s reshuffle, asserting it will strengthen governance and improve service delivery. The party stated the changes are timely as the provincial government works to address resident needs and implement developmental programs, particularly following the passing of the 2025/2026 adjustment budget.