WeeklySA_AdminSURPRISE:Former MEC Mmoloki Cwaile is promptly replaced as premier cracks whip
By Boitumelo Tshehle
The North West province has appointed former Mahikeng local municipality mayor Lenah Miga as the new MEC for cooperative governance, human settlements and traditional affairs.
This came after the former MEC Mmoloki Cwaile turned in his resignation yesterday with immediate effect. The unexpected news came after he was placed on special leave by premier Job Mokgoro on August 6. At that time, Mokgoro did not give reasons for the suspension.
Sources within the department said the move came after Cwaile refused to renew the Project Management Unit (PMU) construction contract which exceeded its initial amount of R122 million. The contract was given to an associate of former premier Supra Mahumapelo.
Even after Mokgoro announced the special leave, Cwaile continued to work as MEC and ignored the announcement, saying he knew nothing about his special leave. On Thursday morning, rumours were that Mokgoro was about to fire him and just before the instruction got out, Cwaile released a statement tendering his resignation.
In a statement, Cwaile said it was only fair that he should relinquish his duties as MEC given that he was not able to be what ANC did not want its deployees to be.
“I wish to appreciate an opportunity the premier has given me to be part of those adding positive impetus to our peoples desires for better life,” he said. Later on Mokgoro released a letter stating Cwaile’s axing from cabinet.
ANC in the North West welcomed Miga’s appointment. Interim Provincial Committee coordinator Hlomani Hlauke said her appointment coincided with the party’s unwavering commitment to restore the faith of the North West people.
“We congratulate Lena Miga and wish her well in her new responsibility. We wish to remind her that for every summit conquered, there will be more summits to prevail over,” Chauke said.
