African National Congress (ANC) Free State provincial chairperson, Mxolisi Dukwana, has been elected as the province’s new premier.
Prime Minister of the Free State
Dukwana, who recently served as Free State Economic Development MEC, was elected on Friday morning during a special session of the provincial legislature in Bloemfontein.
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Dukwana got 17 votes to be elected prime minister defeating Democratic Alliance (DA) provincial leader Roy Jankielsohn.
Jankielsohn received seven votes from the Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) out of 30 votes. Six MPLs abstained from the voting process.
Everyone swears
Speaking to MPL shortly after his inauguration, Dukwana thanked all those who voted him into office and promised to address the challenges of provincial governance, such as speedy delivery of services to the community.
The newly elected prime minister also promised to tackle crime and corruption.
“What I didn’t expect, today is the property of the people of our province. It is a day of hope and restoration. This is the day to reclaim our glory and pride,” said Dukwana.
Dukwana’s accession to the top of the Free State provincial government followed the ANC’s decision to recall Sisi Ntombela as prime minister.
Ntombela resigned from his post this week.
Last month, Ntombela lost the contest for the position of ANC provincial chairman to Dukwana at the 9th Free State provincial conference.
Compiled by Flame Prayer.
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