The Congress of South African Trade Unions in Gauteng rejected a Democratic Alliance no-confidence motion against Premier Panyaza Lesufi after a Public Protector report criticized the Crime Prevention Wardens program. Union officials said the findings addressed procedural violations rather than corruption or financial misconduct. The wardens' initiative created 8,200 positions and contributed to a 7.9 percent reduction in crime before authorities restructured it to comply with traffic enforcement legislation.
Provincial COSATU leaders Amos Monyela and Louisah Modikwe warned that unstable governance could harm the region, which is responsible for 40 percent of national economic output. The Public Protector determined the Community Safety Department violated constitutional boundaries by granting wardens powers reserved for national police agencies. Lesufi agreed to implement remedial measures within 180 days by converting workers to traffic officers under the National Road Traffic Act.
The union federation plans meetings with civic organizations and religious groups to discuss provincial priorities. Opposition parties remain divided on supporting the motion as the African National Congress defends its leader's infrastructure projects and anti-corruption efforts.
Provincial COSATU leaders Amos Monyela and Louisah Modikwe warned that unstable governance could harm the region, which is responsible for 40 percent of national economic output. The Public Protector determined the Community Safety Department violated constitutional boundaries by granting wardens powers reserved for national police agencies. Lesufi agreed to implement remedial measures within 180 days by converting workers to traffic officers under the National Road Traffic Act.
The union federation plans meetings with civic organizations and religious groups to discuss provincial priorities. Opposition parties remain divided on supporting the motion as the African National Congress defends its leader's infrastructure projects and anti-corruption efforts.
