By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Newly elected Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae has announced members of the Free State Executive Council for the 7th administration.
Letsoha-Mathae replaced Mxolisi Dukwana who was last year elected as the Free State provincial chair.
Notably Dukwana was absent from the list, He is tipped to replace Zanele Sifuba as the Speaker of the Legislature.
The ANC lost three seats in the provincial legislature, but still received a majority (51.87%) of votes in the general elections.
She said her administration shall be about fighting corruption, building an ethical state, and providing quality services to our people.
Letsoha-Mathae added that they are committed to working collaboratively to implement policies and initiatives that will drive progress and improve the quality of life for every single citizen in the province.
The Members of the Executive Council are as follows:
1. MEC for Finance, Tourism & Economic Development – Moses Ketso Makume
2. MEC for Public Works & Infrastructure – Dibolelo Kathleen Mahlatsi
3. MEC for Social Development – Nokwanje Selina Leeto
4. MEC for Education – Dr Mantlhake Julia Maboya
5. MEC for Health – Monyatso Viceroy Mahlatsi
6. MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs – Elizabeth Cornelia Rockman
7. MEC for Community Safety, Roads & Transport – Jabu Ntsokolo Ishmael Mbalula
8. MEC for COGTA & Human Settlements – Teboho Zacharia Mokoena
9. MEC for Sports, Arts, Culture & Recreation – Ntobizanele Beauty Sifuba
The announcement was followed by a swearing-in ceremony overseen by the Judge President of the Free State Division of the High Court.
Fullview understands that the were internal conflicts,as factions within the party vied for strategic positions, further complicating the appointment process.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has ranked the state of service delivery in the Free State amongst the worst performing provinces. The commission held a week-long enquiry where all municipalities were invited to account on service delivery.
According to the outcome of the enquiry, municipalities struggle with refuse collection, water and housing provision, as well as bad roads. The commission says poor service delivery deprives people of their dignity and basic human rights.
Meanwhile the Free State community is mourning the loss of Judy Mpho Moalusi, a teacher at Tsoseletso High School, whose life was tragically ended in an alleged violent incident with her boyfriend.
The tragedy has ignited a wave of outrage, emphasising the urgent need to address gender-based violence and enhance the safety of all individuals, particularly women and children.