The situation appears unfavourable for ailing North West premier Bushy Maape, as he continues to face challenges while already down.
It has been a span of two months since the troubled premier fell ill and took a leave of absence, leaving the provincial government without a stable leader.
Maape took some time off to recover after undergoing an orthopaedic procedure.
In June, Sello Tatai, spokesperson for the premier, announced that the doctors had advised the premier to take leave for his recovery.
It was anticipated that he would resume his duties in a few weeks’ time.
In the interim, Nono Maloyi, the ANC North West chairperson, was appointed as the acting premier by the provincial government.
Maape’s leave came at a critical time, coinciding with the province grappling with various service delivery challenges such inadequate water and sanitation provisions.
The absence of effective provincial leadership has prompted calls for accountability while others crudely want Maape out.
The DA in the province has indicated its intention to initiate a motion of no confidence against the premier if he does not return to his role promptly.
The party reaffirmed that it is actively monitoring the situation.
Freddy Sonakile, leader of DA caucus in the North West legislature, wished the premier well. However, he urged the provincial government to furnish an update on Maape’s health, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability.
“The recent calls for his removal are rather opportunistic since we have long said that he is not fit for the job and should have been removed when he saw nothing wrong with the province’s killer potholes,” said Sonakile.
“If he is critically ill, the North West provincial legislature should consider replacing him.”
The DA leader also raised concerns about Maloyi, who serves as cooperative governance and human settlements MEC, stating that he is overseeing himself in a way, which raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
Sonakile said Maloyi holds a significant position in a department that is responsible for ensuring service delivery, yet it is struggling to manage problematic municipalities.
“Maloyi is moonlighting as premier, reporting to himself. He holds a key position in a service delivery department that is currently presiding over failed North West municipalities and must address the housing crisis in the province.
“The DA will closely monitor how this situation unfolds and will not hesitate to table a motion of no confidence in premier Maape on the grounds that he is unable to perform the functions of office, citing both his incompetence and continued absence,” said Sonakile.
It was reported on Thursday that the ANC Youth League in North West has also called for the premier to retire.
The young lions argue that the role of the premier holds a crucial strategic position, serving as the foundation for executing vital government policies, especially those related to service delivery.
The residents of the province rightfully require a fully operational and cohesive leadership team to be in place, as this is essential for achieving envisioned objectives, said the league.
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