JOHANNESBURG - Accountability and real solutions
These are the expectations of some opposition parties as Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi prepares to deliver the State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Monday afternoon.
In 2025, Lesufi identified 13 key problem areas, faced by the province.
These problems spanned from water shortages, cable theft and vandalism, non-functional traffic lights, potholes, crime, electricity issues, lack of schools, and unemployment.
But 12 months later, many of those problems remain.
Frustration recently boiled over in Coronationville, where residents barricaded roads over ongoing water disruptions.
READ | WATCH | Tear gas, rubber bullets fly at Coronationville water protest
In another case, a burst pipe was repaired by Johannesburg Water and supply restored — only for the same pipe to burst again two days later.
Recently civil society groups called for a clear plan, firm timelines, and urgent national intervention to deal with Johannesburg’s water crisis.
READ | JHB streets flow while taps run dry
GOOD National Chairperson Matthew Cook, too many of these commitments remain unfulfilled.
Cook said urged Lesufi to use this moment to reset expectations and commit to realistic outcomes that will improve the lives of Gauteng residents.
"He must acknowledge where promises have fallen short, explain why implementation has lagged, and present clear, measurable outcomes with realistic timelines," he said.
DA provincial leader Solly Msimanga echoed similar concerns, saying residents have suffered under Lesufi’s government.
Beyond water, Msimanga pointed to what he described as collapsing infrastructure due to poor governance and a lack of maintenance.
"Roads are littered with potholes and sinkholes, causing a danger to motorists and pedestrians. 44% of Gauteng provincial traffic lights are not functioning despite his promise to ensure that our roads are up to standard," he said.
Msimanga added that if Lesufi is serious about fixing the province, he must present a clear implementation plan, not another list of promises.