23 April 2004

Gender activists have welcomed President Thabo Mbeki's announcement of four women provincial premier candidates.

The four candidates are Nosimo Balindela for the Eastern Cape, Beatrice Marshoff for the Free State, Dipuo Peters for the Northern Cape and Edna Molewa for North West - to replace Makhenkesi Stofile, Winkie Direko, Manne Dipico and Popo Molefe respectively.

"It shows that President Mbeki takes transformation seriously", said Kubi Rama, a deputy director of Johannesburg-based Gender Links, adding that it would go a long way towards motivating women, especially young women, in South Africa.

"It is a good indication that, in 2009, we might have all provincial lists consisting of a fair representation of women."

Phumla Mncayi, director of the Gender Advocacy Programme, hailed the announcement as a recognition of women's contribution to the country's liberation. "It gives hope for women", Mncayi said.

The other premier candidates are:

• Thabang Makwetla for Mpumalanga. Makwetla, who was MEC for safety and liaison in the province, will replace Ndaweni Mahlangu as premier.
• In KwaZulu-Natal, Transport MEC Sbu Ndebele will replace the IFP's Lionel Mtshali.
• Ebrahim Rasool, who was MEC for finance and economic affairs, will lead the Western Cape.
• In Limpopo, Health MEC Sello Moloto will replace outgoing Premier Ngoako Ramatlhodi.
• Gauteng Premier Mbhazima Shilowa is the only provincial leader to retain his position.

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