Mbombela (Nelspruit) – The Public Servants Association (PSA) has welcomed the recent Mpumalanga Cabinet reshuffle announced by Premier Mandla Ndlovu.
Earlier this week, on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, the Mpumalanga premier fired two MECs and reshuffled his provincial Cabinet.
The Premier dismissed Education MEC Cathy Dlamini and Economic Development and Tourism MEC Makhosazane Masilela.
The reshuffle came at a critical time, following serious allegations of procurement irregularities, including the Education Department’s controversial R2 million laptop procurement scandal.
Commenting on the matter, Premier Ndlovu said he had become aware of alleged fraud in which the electronic signature of former premier, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, was unlawfully used to extend an official’s work contract.
“There is also an alleged payment of R80 000, exchanged for the misuse of the former premier’s electronic signature.
“This matter is viewed in a very serious light.
“As a result, I have consulted the acting provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, to investigate the matter.”
Welcoming the decision, the PSA said it believes, “decisive leadership action is essential to restore public confidence and uphold accountability within the provincial administration”.
The PSA said it notes the following appointments:
- Lindi Lettie Masina as the new MEC for Education;
- Jesta Sidel as MEC for Economic Development and Tourism;
- Khethiwe Moeketsi as the new MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs; and
- Nompumelelo Hlophe, who will now serve as MEC for Social Development.
The PSA said it views these changes as a “positive and necessary” step to improve service delivery, promote ethical leadership, and address public concerns about maladministration and corruption.
“As a union committed to protecting the rights and interests of public servants and ensuring the efficient use of public resources, the PSA urges the newly appointed MECs to prioritise transparency, sound financial management, and a renewed focus on service delivery that benefits all residents of Mpumalanga,” the union said.
The PSA said it will continue to monitor the impact of these leadership changes and engage constructively with the provincial government to support reforms that advance good governance and create a professional, corruption-free public service.
