Ramathuba axes three in Limpopo Cabinet reshuffle

Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba has reorganized her provincial cabinet, removing three MECs. On Tuesday, Ramathuba introduced three new members to her executive council. These appointees are Pule Shayi, Eddie Maila, and Constance Kupa-Mabuza. The three MECs who did not retain their positions are Dioketseng Mashego (health), Jerry Maseko (sports, art and culture), and Violet Mathye (transport and community safety). The new MECs in the reshuffled council are:

1. Agriculture and Rural Development: Basikopo Makamu

2. Education: Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya

3. Social Development: Florence Radzilani

4. Transport and Community Safety: Nakedi Kekana

5. Economic Development, Environment and Tourism: Tshitereke Matibe

6. Finance: Kgabo Mahoai

7. Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure: Ernest Rachoene

8. Sport, Arts and Culture: Constance Kupa-Mabuza

9. Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs: Pule Shayi

10. Health: Eddie Maila

Ramathuba stated that while the decision was not taken lightly, it was crucial to boost the province's development. She expressed gratitude to those who have served diligently, but emphasized the need for constant evaluation to better serve the people of Limpopo. The premier acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the province, such as high unemployment, poverty, and access to basic services.

She addressed the new executive council, urging them to focus on turning around the lives of ordinary residents in villages, townships, and towns. Ramathuba emphasized that her administration will be characterized by hard work, dedication, and a commitment to inclusive growth.

The EFF in Limpopo criticized Ramathuba's Cabinet reshuffle as a factional move, suggesting it was a form of payback from the ANC's tradition of reciprocal support. Despite this, the EFF provincial chair, Makgabo Lawrence Mapoulo, maintained that the new leaders lack the ability to revive the ANC's struggling position in Limpopo.