Johannesburg — Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s recent remarks about experiencing water shortages, including having to bathe at a hotel, have drawn sharp criticism from the Democratic Alliance. On Tuesday, party chief whip George Michalakis described Lesufi’s comments as “stupid” and suggested voters could respond at the ballot box.
Michalakis made the remarks during a joint sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, where MPs continued debating President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent State of the Nation Address (SONA). The debate is set to continue on Wednesday, with Ramaphosa expected to respond on Thursday.
With local government elections approaching, Michalakis warned that the SONA could fall short of expectations if the economy does not improve, drawing a parallel to Johannesburg’s ongoing water shortages. He criticised Lesufi for his “hotel bath” comment and highlighted the premier’s absence from the SONA debate as insensitive during a period of crisis.
Lesufi had previously visited a reservoir in Brixton, Johannesburg, and acknowledged that he, like many residents, faced water shortages. He explained that in some cases he had to use hotel facilities to maintain his commitments. The premier later issued an apology, acknowledging that his remarks could be seen as insensitive to issues of social inequality.
The water crisis also drew criticism from Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, who said ministers and mayors lacked knowledge of town planning and water infrastructure. Malema praised the EFF’s MMC for water in the City of Ekurhuleni, Thembi Msane, as a “water champion” and argued municipalities would struggle unless the equitable share funding model was revised. He also urged Ramaphosa to take stronger action against ministers failing to address water issues effectively.
Meanwhile, Gayton McKenzie, leader of the Patriotic Alliance and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, defended Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, saying she was working diligently despite challenges in Gauteng and was unfairly criticised for her political affiliation. McKenzie highlighted the Government of National Unity’s collaborative efforts and stressed that real economists indicate positive economic progress.
As South Africa heads into municipal elections, water shortages remain a central issue, with political parties using the crisis to highlight governance successes and failures across the country.
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