By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Newly-elected Free State Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana, delivered his first ever State of the Province Address (SOPA) in Bloemfontein.
Dukwana conceded the ailing province’s socio-economic state was due to complex challenges, among them being political will and the inability to implement programmes meant to improve the lives of the public.
“Building a Free State of choice, will involve a focus recruitment of capable public servants, to transform our ideals into pragmatic actions. Over the next 14 months we shall take decisive action to make the Free State a province of choice. We will leverage on our location as the heart of South Africa, a reality upon which our development must be based,” said Dukwana.
He has likened the ailing Free State’s socio-economy to a chronic kidney disease.
“We all know the functions of a kidney. If the kidney is not functioning well, it results in the body becoming weak.
“This is the case with the Free State province, because our economy is not functioning well and thus South Africa as a whole suffers,” said Dukwana.
A former teacher and the first MEC for Education in the province, Dukwana brings with him vast experience, having served in different portfolios in the provincial government. He thanked his predecessor, Sisi Ntombela, for steering the ship during trying times.
Dukwana, who was elected as premier on Friday (24/02), emerged victorious after a fierce battle for the position of provincial ANC-chairperson. He was elected together with four other candidates in the top party positions on 22 January at the ninth provincial conference held in Bloemfontein.
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