MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae was officially sworn in as the Premier of the Free State on Friday, June 14th.
Letsoha-Mathae, who previously served as the MEC for Community Safety, Roads, and Transport, takes over from Mxolisi Dukwana, who was in charge for less than two years.
The election of Letsoha-Mathae as the new Premier has been welcomed and people have faith that she will turn the province around and improve service delivery.
The election of the new premier came as a shock to many who thought Dukwana would continue in his role. For now, it’s unclear which role he will occupy next. New members of the Free State legislature were sworn in, paving the way for a new provincial cabinet under Letsoha-Mathae.
Gadija Brown, Makalo Mohale, and Limakatso Mahasa, were not sworn in and will not return as Members of the Executive Council. Returning members Thabo Meeko, Dibolelo Mance, Saki Mokoena, Mathabo Leeto, Toto Makume, and Mxolisi Dukwana were sworn in alongside new members.
It remains to be seen what roles they will occupy when Premier Letsoha-Mathae announces her new cabinet. Jabu Mbalula, the Provincial ANC Spokesperson and Fikile Mbalula’s brother, was also sworn in. It is alleged that Mbalula is set to become an MEC.
It further remains to be seen who will be the new MEC for Education, as the Free State is doing well nationally in basic education and a lot will be expected from the new MEC to continue the work of MECs Tate Makgoe and Makalo Mohale. Zanele Sifuba retained her position as the Speaker of the Free State Legislature.
#BeTheFirstKnow
