Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Nonkululeko Njilo
Published on 2024-02-29 21:23:36
ActionSA provincial leader Funzi Ngobeni is emerging as a strong contender for the premiership of Gauteng, positioning himself to take on incumbent Panyaza Lesufi of the ANC, as well as other prominent figures such as the DA’s Solly Msimanga, the EFF’s Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, and Rise Mzansi’s Vuyiswa Ramokgopa. With the province being a key economic driver for the country, drawing in a significant portion of GDP and home to over 15 million residents, the stakes are high for whoever assumes the position of Premier.
Ngobeni has already set his sights on addressing key issues facing Gauteng, such as deteriorating basic services, high unemployment, violent crime, and crumbling infrastructure. In a bid to bring about change, he plans to dismantle the controversial Crime Prevention Wardens, also known as AmaPanyaza, and redeploy them to various municipalities across the province. This move is part of his broader strategy to combat crime and enhance law enforcement at the grassroots level.
Endorsed by ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba, Ngobeni has pledged to tackle what he describes as “the decay of 30 years of the ruling party’s misrule.” His vision includes conducting a comprehensive audit of all abandoned properties in the province, as well as implementing measures to improve traffic management and road infrastructure. Ngobeni’s background as a former Johannesburg councillor and MMC for transport, finance, and development planning lends him valuable experience in governance and policy implementation.
Ngobeni faces stiff competition from other candidates vying for the premiership. Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, the national chairperson of Rise Mzansi, brings a wealth of business experience to the table, with a focus on addressing issues such as the controversial e-toll scheme. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi of the EFF, known for his academic credentials and political acumen, presents another formidable challenger. Solly Msimanga of the DA, with a background in local government and a focus on accountability and transparency, is also in the running.
In contrast, Panyaza Lesufi, the current Premier of Gauteng, has been at the helm since last year and has introduced various public employment programs and anti-crime initiatives during his tenure. However, his handling of issues such as the e-toll system and the Crime Prevention Wardens has come under scrutiny, with reports suggesting lapses in due process and implementation.
As the race for the Gauteng premiership heats up, each candidate brings their own unique strengths and strategies to the table. Whether it’s Funzi Ngobeni’s focus on dismantling AmaPanyaza and revitalizing infrastructure, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa’s emphasis on business leadership and economic development, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s academic prowess and political experience, Solly Msimanga’s commitment to transparency and accountability, or Panyaza Lesufi’s track record in provincial government, the outcome of the upcoming election will have significant implications for the future of Gauteng and its residents.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
