Gauteng DA calls for investigation into Premier Lesufi’s alleged ethical breach

Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng has raised serious concerns regarding Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s alleged potential violation of the Executive Members Ethics Act.

According to DA, evidence emerged indicating that Lesufi may have failed to uphold the ethical standards mandated by the Act, which is designed to promote integrity and accountability among executive officials.

In response, the DA has formally requested an investigation from the Public Protector, Advocate. Kholeka Gcaleka, into what they describe as the Premier’s flagrant disregard for the Code of Ethics established by the Executive Members’ Ethics Act of 1998.

This complaint aligns with Sections 3 and 4 of the Act.

The basis for this complaint lies in an affidavit submitted by Peter Skosana, the former Secretary of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, which is included in the court application.

The affidavit reveals that Premier Lesufi attended a meeting on October 11, 2023, convened by Chief Whip Lesego Makhubela, which included the Speaker and other high-ranking members of the Legislature.

During this meeting, critical issues were discussed, such as the contentious 13 cheque matter currently before the Labour Court and the deteriorating relationship between the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL) Management and the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU), which has contributed to a toxic work environment.

The DA has expressed deep concern over Premier Lesufi’s involvement in these discussions, which they argue are primarily focused on resolving internal ANC conflicts.

NEHAWU has threatened to withdraw support in upcoming elections unless their demands regarding the 13 cheque and the disciplinary actions against 34 staff members accused of fraudulent Subsistence and Travel claims are met.

This situation highlights what the DA perceives as Premier Lesufi’s troubling misunderstanding of the separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government.

“As an Executive Member, the Premier should not have participated in discussions concerning the internal matters of the Legislature, a responsibility that rightly belongs to the Speaker,” added DA.