Mathabatha lashes back at ‘reshuffle’ fears

Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha has lashed back at reports suggesting pro-Zuma MECs in his cabinet feared being shown the door.

Spokesperson in the Premier’s office, Kenny Mathivha, said his boss was not in the habit of discussing the appointment of MECs with “anyone”.

He was reacting to mainstream press reports suggesting pro-Zuma MECs were “living in fear” that Mathabatha was about to wield the axe on them.

“He (Mathabatha) has just appointed two MECs and why would he change his executive now? Government is busy aligning its programmes with service delivery. Right now there’s no hurry to change the executive,” Mathivha said.

Modimolle’s Thandi Moraka was recently appointed MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, replacing Onica Moloi, who recently resigned under controversial circumstances.

Agriculture and Rural Development MEC, Baisikopo Makamu, is the new incumbent, replacing the late Joyce Mashamba.

In recent days media reports triggered shockwaves, suggesting those MECs who supported Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma during the ANC December elective conference were to be kicked out.

— The BEAT