Jacaranda FM Confronts Premier Panyaza Lesufi with Hard-Hitting Questions from Gauteng Residents
Johannesburg – Crime, potholes, unreliable water and electricity services, as well as rates and taxes: these represent just a few of the daily challenges encountered by residents of Gauteng.
On the morning of Thursday, 13 August 2026, Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast with Martin Bester took a close look at these issues with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi during his first live interview with the station.
Joined by Martin Bester, Philicity Reeken, and Xola Ntshinga, Premier Lesufi addressed concerns raised by both Jacaranda FM listeners and the Breakfast team, engaging in an extensive conversation that moved beyond political headlines to address some of the province’s most pressing matters.
Crime emerged as a significant worry, prompting Premier Lesufi to unveil a 10-point plan aimed at improving law enforcement across Gauteng.
This initiative includes increased use of satellite technology, enhanced CCTV systems, the deployment of drones and helicopters, a revamped vehicle registration process, reduced cash reliance, better management of crime hotspots, tackling illegal firearms, focusing on repeat offenders, and promoting a more coordinated approach to law enforcement across municipal boundaries.
“If there’s one issue that keeps me awake at night, it’s crime,” Premier Lesufi expressed, acknowledging the profound effects of crime on residents and Gauteng’s economic future.
“If we can’t control crime, we can’t control our economy, and without economic management, attracting investment will become impossible.”
Premier Lesufi also commented on the reported 5.2% drop in crime over the last quarter, acknowledging its significance while also situating it within the broader context of ongoing challenges.
“It’s just a small drop in the ocean given the enormity of crime we confront,” he elaborated.
Confronting Gauteng’s daily issues from potholes to power
The conversation also addressed the everyday service issues faced by residents, including potholes, intermittent water and electricity supply, malfunctioning streetlights, and traffic signals.
Premier Lesufi pointed out one of Gauteng’s major challenges—the fragmentation of responsibilities among municipal, provincial, and national authorities—which can leave citizens uncertain about which entity is accountable for specific issues.
He emphasized that the province is working towards a more unified approach to infrastructure challenges, irrespective of which level of government oversees a particular asset.
“We don’t care if it’s a national or provincial road; if a streetlight is out, it needs to be repaired,” Premier Lesufi asserted.
The discussion highlighted the powerful role of live radio in connecting audiences with decision-makers, allowing listeners to express their concerns instead of merely receiving pre-packaged political messages.
Premier Lesufi shares his vision for Gauteng’s future
Looking forward, Premier Lesufi spoke about his aspiration to transform Gauteng’s economy and reduce its historical reliance on mining.
He envisioned Johannesburg evolving into a hub for technology, ICT, and telecommunications, while Tshwane could enhance its focus on government, research, educational institutions, and the automotive sector.
The West Rand is expected to concentrate more on agriculture and energy, particularly solar energy, while the southern parts of Gauteng and the Vaal should focus on water-related industries and manufacturing.
Among his more ambitious plans was a high-speed rail connection between Gauteng and Polokwane, targeting a travel time of approximately 67 minutes.
“This must become a reality in our lifetime,” Premier Lesufi stated emphatically.
A more personal perspective
While the dialogue primarily focused on Gauteng’s challenges, Lesufi also shared insights into his personal journey, recounting his early life in Thembisa after his family was displaced from Edenvale during apartheid.
He emphasized the importance his parents placed on education, discussed his early political engagement while still in school, and recalled being detained during his final year, ultimately completing his last exams in prison.
Premier Lesufi also revealed a lesser-known ambition of his: had he not pursued a career in politics, he might have turned to acting.
“Stage acting would have been my preference. I have a genuine passion for acting,” he commented.
Jacaranda FM highlighted that this interview underscores the station’s commitment to fostering meaningful discussions about issues that matter to their audience, allowing listeners access to influential voices and decision-makers.
“Breakfast radio carries the responsibility of reflecting the conversations around us,” noted Vuyani Dombo, Managing Director at Jacaranda FM.
“Our listeners face these issues daily, which is why we aimed to provide them with a platform to directly pose their questions to the Premier and hear his candid responses.”
“Whether it’s crime, service delivery, or the future of Gauteng—these are the conversations our audience is eager to engage in.”
If you missed it, listen to the full interview with Premier Panyaza Lesufi on Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast with Martin Bester here: https://iono.fm/e/1706643.
Tune in to “Breakfast With Martin Bester” every weekday on Jacaranda FM from 06:00 to 09:00.
The post Jacaranda FM Engages Gauteng Residents’ Tough Questions With Premier Panyaza Lesufi appeared first on The Bulrushes.