Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has compared the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) Helen Zille to an “old Ford Cortina,” saying Johannesburg needs fresh leadership rather than a “failed pensioner.”
Speaking at the ANC’s Tshwane regional conference in Centurion on Saturday, Lesufi, also co-convener of the ANC’s Provincial Task Team, urged party members to end factional battles and focus on reclaiming control of the three metropolitan municipalities.
“We can’t continue to squabble amongst each other when we should all be working to regain power. We lost power, comrades,” Lesufi said.
Addressing DA plans to bring Zille to Johannesburg, he added: “Johannesburg does not need a Ford Cortina. We need a Ferrari. We don’t want that old Ford Cortina here.”
He criticised the DA’s track record, pointing to what he described as mismanagement in Cape Town and Gauteng during their nearly nine years in power.
Lesufi also slammed the DA’s motion of no confidence against him, describing it as a “desperate attempt” to force their way into government. He questioned the party’s continued participation in the Government of National Unity while opposing key policies like the Bela Bill, NHI, and BEE.
“We cannot work with people who act in this manner; they must leave if they don’t like what we stand for,” he said.
The premier’s remarks drew loud applause from delegates as he positioned the ANC as the party capable of delivering strong, transformative leadership in Johannesburg.