Pretoria - The newly inaugurated Premier of Limpopo, Stanley Mathabatha, is expected to make an official announcement on his provincial cabinet later this afternoon.
In his acceptance speech during his inauguration at the provincial legislature in Lebowakgomo on Thursday, Mathabatha said change should be viewed as part of the democratic process, and it was not aimed at changing government policy.
“There is no need for anyone to feel anxious or apprehensive about these changes. Equally, no one should feel unwanted or aggrieved.
“The challenges before us are greater than all of us as leaders and we therefore need each other,” he said.
Mathabatha said it was “not a secret” that the image of Limpopo had suffered a great deal as a result of negative reporting, which at times has shaken the faith of the people in the ability of their government to deliver.
“It is also worth mentioning that we meet here at a time when our province is full of great opportunities amidst complex difficulties. It is during moments such as these when we should dig deep within our souls to search for that which makes us the unique people we are,” he said.
On the fight against corruption, Mathabatha said he would make it the primary mission of his provincial administration to root out depravity wherever it manifests itself.
“We call on all our people to join us in our endeavour and renewed efforts to defeat crass materialism, consumerism and other ills that threaten the moral fibre of our society.
“Those found guilty must be made to pay for their misdeeds. We cannot allow people to use state resources for personal enrichment.
“This is the taxpayer’s money. It is meant for nothing else but the improvement of the living conditions of our people. We must reclaim the dignity and glory of Limpopo as the province of peace and prosperity,” he said.
Since Limpopo was well endowed with mineral deposits and a variety of tourism offerings, the premier said there was a unique opportunity to expand the productive capacity of the provincial economy.
He said concerted efforts would have to be made to further reduce dependency through the creation of more employment opportunities in tourism, agriculture and the mining sector.
Opposition parties congratulated Mathabatha on his appointment and further advised him to put party politics aside and let service delivery be a priority. - SAnews.gov.za
