Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi says he is ready to announce his cabinet, but he is currently awaiting approval and the conclusion of the Government of National Unity (GNU) negotiations.
Lesufi explained that they've concluded consultations and negotiations. "There is some link with the national discussions in establishing a GNU, and the political leadership of the ANC has requested that we wait for that because they have to conclude. As soon as the national leadership gives us the go-ahead, we'll be able to make that announcement," Lesufi said in an eNCA interview.
Lesufi had initially intended to announce his provincial executive on Sunday, but it was postponed due to disagreements between the ANC and the DA. "From our consultation, we committed that by Wednesday we would have concluded the task. We've done that, and we have concluded. We met all political parties," he said. "I can confirm that I met the ACDP provincial leadership, and they've agreed to participate and be part of our provincial government. There's only one political party that was not willing to talk to us, which was ActionSA. We were surprised two days ago when they sent a communique requesting to meet us, and our negotiators met them. They maintained their standpoint that they wanted to be an independent opposition. However, they also expressed willingness to share issues with us and offer support where needed. We must not hesitate to talk with them." Panyaza added.