ANC Youth League slams Lesufi reshuffle, warns of youth exclusion

The ANC Youth League in Gauteng has come out strongly against Premier, Panyaza Lesufi’s, recent cabinet reshuffle, describing it as a move that sidelines young people and undermines internal democracy within the African National Congress (ANC).

Briefing the media on Thursday at Luthuli House in Johannesburg, the league says the changes send a dangerous message about the role of young people in the movement, warning that their exclusion could have long-term political consequences.

The criticism follows a significant political shift in Gauteng, with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) now joining the ANC-led coalition government.

EFF provincial chairperson, Nkululeko Dunga, has been appointed Finance MEC, replacing Lebogang Maile, who has been moved to the Education portfolio.

Premier Panyaza Lesufi, has defended the reshuffle, saying it is aimed at stabilising government and improving performance.

Gauteng Executive Council led by Premier Panyaza @Lesufi. #GrowingGautengTogether pic.twitter.com/eOMxGx9FAr

— Gauteng Provincial Gov (@GautengProvince) April 2, 2026

However, the ANC Youth League has rejected this, accusing leadership of ignoring its resolutions and excluding young people from key decisions.

Provincial Secretary, Mpume Sangweni, says the reshuffle reflects political compromises rather than a focus on service delivery.

The league warns that the move could further alienate young voters at a time when the ANC is already facing declining support.

With youth unemployment in Gauteng above 50%, the Youth League argues that the absence of young voices in leadership weakens efforts to address the province’s deepening socio-economic challenges.

In a related stance, the ANC Youth League has also accused Lesufi of undermining the party and weakening its grip on power in Gauteng.

The fallout comes after the reshuffle brought the EFF into the provincial executive, a move the Youth League claims comes at the ANC’s expense.

Provincial chairperson, Ntsako Mogobe, says the Premier ignored key directives from the party’s Provincial Working Committee, effectively reducing the ANC’s influence in the executive.

The league is now calling for consequences, insisting the ANC must remain at the centre of power, not individuals.

It has also raised concerns about the continued exclusion of young people from meaningful participation in government.

The Youth League has rejected the reshuffle and is threatening to mobilise against the current provincial leadership, warning that internal divisions could further erode public trust.

Swearing-in of Nkululeko Dunga as Member of the Gauteng Executive Council responsible for @GautengTreasury by Acting Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Aubrey Phago Ledwaba. pic.twitter.com/TOdlr5Gpxn

— Gauteng Provincial Gov (@GautengProvince) April 2, 2026

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe