The African National Congress (ANC) on Thursday said it appreciated Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s “accountability” in correcting and apologising for his remarks on the ongoing water challenges in Gauteng.

This after Lesufi told residents that he too faces water challenges and that he sometimes showers at hotels. He further stated that there was "no special water", or unique, infrastructure for government leaders and that his family “suffered the same pain" as other residents.

Lesufi issued a formal apology following public backlash following his remarks. He clarified that he never intended to trivialise the hardships faced by residents.

The ANC welcomed Lesufi’s clarification and apology, which it said affirmed that any interpretation suggesting that hardship differed based on social standing was never his intention.

ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu called on all its public representatives to exercise “disciplined, humble and people-centred communication,” especially during times of crisis.

She said the values of the ANC, rooted in the Freedom Charter, of servant leadership and closeness to the masses must guide conduct and utterances.

“Leaders must always reflect empathy, humility and accountability. Even in the most difficult challenges facing our communities, the character of the ANC must remain evident in its leadership,” she said.

The party pointed out that access to water was a basic human right enshrined in the Constitution and Bhengu stated that this was “consistently upheld” in ANC policy, including its 2024 Election Manifesto.

“Water shortages affect all residents, with the working class and poor often bearing the greatest burden. The movement remains committed to ensuring equitable, reliable and sustainable access to water infrastructure across Gauteng and the country,” she assured.

NATIONAL INTERVENTION

Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) is actively pushing for national intervention in the crisis, particularly in Gauteng.

While there have been calls from various sectors to declare a national state of disaster, the party’s position focuses on activating disaster funding and legal accountability rather than just a formal declaration.

The party has urged the national government to activate emergency and disaster funding instruments to address the collapsing water infrastructure in municipalities such as the City of Johannesburg and City of Tshwane.