Shayi sworn in as new CoGHSTA MEC in Limpopo
DA provincial leader Jacques Smalle has criticised Limpopo's MEC reshuffle as politically driven, pointing to Pule Shayi's poor audit record as mayor.
LIMPOPO – Pule Shayi is now the MEC of Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA).
Shayi who was the Mayor of Mopani District Municipality (MDM), was officially sworn in by Judge President, George Phatudi on Wednesday, September 2.
Speculation mounts over next Mopani mayor
This now brings questions as to who will take over as MDM mayor. With some predicting either the Greater Letaba Municipality Mayor, Dagma Mamanyoha or former Giyani Mayor, Basani Shivambu could be sworn in as the district’s head.
Two other MECs also sworn in
Shayi was sworn in together with Eddie Maila as the MEC of Health and Constance Kupa-Mabuza as the MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture.
Shayi replaces Basikopo Makamu who is now the MEC for Agriculture, Maila replaces Deiketseng Mashego and Kupa-Mabuza replaces Jerry Maseko.
Mashego not making the cut does not seem to be a surprise to many as she did not make the cut of the ANC’s new provincial executive committee, suggesting she already lost internal standing months ago.
DA criticises reshuffle as politically driven
Meanwhile the DA, says that the reshuffle is designed to accommodate narrow ANC political interests rather than improve the performance of the provincial government.
“ANC office is not a qualification for provincial office. If appointments instead follow the outcome of an ANC elective conference, then party interests have been placed ahead of the public interest,” said Jacques Smalle, the DA’s provincial leader in Limpopo.
Smalle added that Shayi, in five years had two disclaimer and three qualified audit opinions and did not achieve a single unqualified audit during the period.
Premier urges new MECs to deliver services
After the swearing in, Limpopo Premier Dr Phopi Ramathuba told the new MEC’s to bring new energy and deliver services to the people.
“Our people want services, they are tired of slogans. Work hard in order to avoid another reshuffle. Work hard and deliver services, as long as you deliver services don’t be bothered when they call you names,” she said.
She further said that the three are not better than the others but it is God’s time for them to serve.
“Give God’s people water, electricity, medication and services,” she said.
She concluded by stating that she already had a meeting with the outgoing MECs and they will be deployed to other portfolios.
