EFF Takes Control Of Gauteng Provincial Finances As Nkululeko Dunga Is Appointed MEC For South Africa’s Economic Hub

Nkululeko Dunga of the EFF is now Gauteng's Finance MEC. Read about the political backlash and the economic impact on South Africa's richest province.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 4, 2026, 6:25 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from BusinessTech

A Strategic Shift In Provincial Governance

In a move that has sent ripples through South Africa’s political landscape, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have secured a key seat in the Gauteng Provincial Government. Premier Panyaza Lesufi officially appointed Nkululeko Dunga as the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Finance, a role that grants the party oversight of the nation’s wealthiest province. Gauteng currently accounts for approximately 35% of South Africa’s total GDP, making this portfolio one of the most powerful administrative positions in the country. The EFF has welcomed the appointment as a "progressive step," confirming their active participation in the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU).

Coalition Dynamics And Political Exclusions

The inclusion of the EFF in the provincial executive highlights a significant divergence between Gauteng’s leadership and the national Government of National Unity (GNU). While the national ANC leadership works alongside the DA and VF Plus, Premier Lesufi has opted for a coalition that explicitly excludes these parties, labeling them as "racist" in accordance with EFF principles. The EFF’s entry into the GPU is predicated on its "7 Non Negotiable Cardinal Pillars," a set of policy requirements that prioritize radical economic transformation and land reform. This local alliance is seen by analysts as a strategic move by Lesufi to secure his regional power base ahead of local government elections scheduled for later this year.

Leadership Transitions And Portfolio Reassignments

Dunga’s appointment was part of a broader cabinet reshuffle intended to stabilize the provincial administration. Former Finance MEC Lebogang Maile has been transitioned to the Education portfolio, while Nomantu Nkomo Ralehoko has moved from Health to Social Development. In a reciprocal move, Faith Mazibuko has taken over the Department of Health. Additionally, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa of Rise Mzansi has seen her responsibilities expanded to include Economic Development alongside her existing roles in Agriculture and Rural Development. These shifts suggest an attempt by Lesufi to balance the diverse interests of the various minority parties supporting his administration.