Morakane Mosupyoe has been appointed Gauteng economic development MEC, replacing former Tshwane mayor, Kgosientso “Sputla” Ramokgopa who tendered his resignation earlier on Friday.
Premier David Makhura, in a statement announced the appointment following pressure from the NEC for greater female representation in his executive. He had until Friday to meet the deadline to replace one of his male MEC’s with a woman.
This is in line with the NEC’s resolution that says where a premier is male, 60% of the executive must be women.
“I have taken some time to effect this decision of the governing party to allow all the members of the executive council to finalise their plans in line with the commitments I announced during the State of the Province Address in July. Members of the executive council have since then engaged in extensive consultation with various stakeholders around finalizing our plan – Growing Gauteng Together,” Makhura says.
Mosupyoe served as a councillor in the City of Tshwane from 2006 – 2016. During this period, she also served as the MMC for Health and Social Development.
In 2011 she became the first female Speaker of the City of Tshwane until 2016 when the term ended.
Makhura adds, “I am confident that Mosupyoe will build on the solid foundation laid by Dr. Ramokgopa towards the realisation of our vision of growing the economy of our province. She will continue with the process of creating an integrated multi-tier Special Economic Zone (SEZ).”
