EFF, MK, and ActionSA Reject DA’s Anti-Lesufi Motion

Johannesburg – The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Gauteng has officially refused to back the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) motion of no confidence against Premier Panyaza Lesufi. This decision aligns the EFF with ActionSA and the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, who have also rejected the DA’s initiative.

The motion stems from Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka’s report, which found that Lesufi’s Gauteng crime prevention wardens, known as *AmaPanyaza*, were established irregularly. The report stated the program lacked legal authority to perform policing duties. Gcaleka emphasized that provincial governments are not empowered by law to assume policing powers, deeming any such conduct unlawful and unconstitutional.

EFF Rejects DA’s Overture

In a letter to the DA, the EFF explained its refusal, accusing the party of hypocrisy. The EFF stated that the DA has previously labeled it a “public enemy” and now seeks its support. The party declared it would not engage with the DA while such “inflammatory statements” remain in effect. The EFF demanded a public retraction and a clear apology from the DA as a prerequisite for any political cooperation, stating that engagement must be grounded in mutual respect.

Other Parties Dismiss the Motion

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

The MK Party also dismissed the motion, characterizing it as an opportunistic move. They argued that Premier Lesufi should not be penalized for initiatives aimed at combating crime. Similarly, ActionSA noted that the DA’s motion is unlikely to succeed without the crucial backing of both the EFF and the MK Party. This collective opposition presents a significant hurdle for the DA, making the prospect of unseating the premier highly improbable. The political standoff highlights the complex alliances and deep-seated rivalries within the Gauteng legislature.