- Gauteng Premier and ANC’s Gauteng chairperson, Panyaza Lesufi, has deactivated his X account.
- While the exact reasons remain unclear, rumors suggest the ANC may have summoned him over his opposition to the Government of National Unity.
- Another theory points to a video by DA member Martin Nel accusing Lesufi and Deputy President Paul Mashatile of corruption in a housing project.
With over seven years of experience at Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News, Tebogo Mokwena, a Briefly News current affairs journalist, sheds light on South African politics, governance at national, provincial, and local levels, the Government of National Unity, political parties, and Parliament.
JOHANNESBURG — The Gauteng political landscape seems to be heating up once again as Premier Panyaza Lesufi has taken the unusual step of deactivating his X account. The move has sent shockwaves through social media circles, sparking widespread speculation about the reasons behind this decision. Could it be linked to internal party tensions, or is there something more sinister at play?
Lesufi’s Controversial Move on Social Media
For many observers, the deactivation of Lesufi's X account raises eyebrows, especially given the current political climate in Gauteng. Some suggest the move might be tied to recent tensions within the African National Congress (ANC). Lesufi has been vocal in his criticism of the Government of National Unity (GNU), a stance that has reportedly caught the attention of ANC leadership. Sources close to the party indicate that he was summoned for questioning regarding his public opposition to the GNU, a move seen by some as a direct challenge to the party's authority. This latest development adds fuel to the fire, as Lesufi's critics argue that his actions could undermine the ANC's unity at a critical time.
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Whispers of Corruption: The Montrose Mega City Project
Adding another layer of complexity to the situation is a video posted by Democratic Alliance (DA) member Martin Nel on his TikTok account. The video, later shared on X by user @Lebona_cabonena, highlights the infamous Montrose Mega City Project—a R11 billion endeavor meant to provide housing for military veterans. The project, initiated by former Gauteng Premier David Makhura and then-MEC for Human Settlements Paul Mashatile, quickly became a symbol of wasteful spending and alleged corruption.
According to Nel, the project was abandoned in 2018 after accusations surfaced that Lesufi, along with Mashatile and others, had siphoned funds from the initiative. The video shows residents dismantling incomplete apartment blocks to salvage steel pieces, a stark reminder of the project's failure. These allegations have reignited debates about accountability and transparency in government projects, with many calling for an investigation into the matter.
What the Public is Saying
The video has sparked outrage among South Africans, with many taking to social media to express their anger and disappointment. Here’s what some users had to say:
Black Dog commented:
"The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) must step in and trace all transactions. This isn't the first time we've seen abandoned projects like these around Soweto hostels."
Bongi Duma chimed in:
"Our leaders are clearly looting our resources. Enough is enough!"
Manro added:
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"There are countless abandoned projects where contractors have been paid but nothing delivered. It's a national disgrace!"
Just Me expressed frustration:
"The premier doesn't seem to care about the province or its people. Who's looking out for us?"
Zen summed up the sentiment:
"This is absolutely heartbreaking. We deserve better from our leaders."
Lesufi’s Critique of the ANC
In a separate development, Briefly News reported that Lesufi has been vocal about the ANC's declining fortunes. Speaking at a recent Gauteng Provincial Executive Committee meeting, he warned the party against repeating the mistakes that led to its loss of majority in the 2024 general elections. Lesufi described the ANC's recent electoral performance as a clear sign of its struggles, likening it to a "sinking ship." His diagnosis highlights the growing tension within the party and the urgent need for reform if it hopes to regain public trust.
As the ANC navigates these challenges, all eyes will be on Panyaza Lesufi. Will he remain a key player in Gauteng politics, or will this latest controversy mark the beginning of the end for his career? Only time will tell.
