The incumbent Free State premier, Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, is forging ahead with effecting changes by rotating heads of departments, despite lingering litigation.
This litigation involves Dr Takisi Masiteng, head of the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs.
The Free State government’s communication services announced on Thursday, 7 November, the shifting of five heads of departments with effect on 18 November.
According to the statement, this change in departmental leadership is pursuant to Premier Letsoha-Mathae’s undertaking made during the opening of the Free State Legislature address: To improve service delivery the provincial government will instigate a process of rotating heads of the departments.
“The rotations, in their nature, are meant to encourage a more dynamic and innovative public sector,” stated Setjhaba Maphalla, acting head of communication.
“It is in this spirit that the premier, after a thorough consultation process with heads of department, resolved to transfer and rotate the heads of departments.
“The transfers and rotation of heads of departments will invariably usher in a new management perspective, ensuring stability, as well as effective governance and efficient provision of services.
“The premier wishes to thank the heads of departments for understanding her vision and appreciates their cooperation in this process, which is meant to strengthen the government of the seventh administration.”
Heads of departments will be transferred to other government departments in the following way:
- Ernest Mohlahlo of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will head the Provincial Treasury;
- Adv. Tumelo Phahlo of the Department of Social Development will lead the Department of Human Settlements;
- Mosa Masimene of the Department of Human Settlement is moved to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure;
- Masechaba Sesing of the Provincial Treasury will take the reins of the Department of Health; while
- Godfrey Mahlatsi of the Department of Health will head the Provincial Accountant-General.
