The Executive Council of the Northern Cape held a special Executive Council meeting today, 20 February 2012, to appoint the Acting Premier after the Premier was incapacitated during the State of the Province Address.

In accordance with the provision of the Constitution, when the Premier is absent or otherwise unable to fulfill the duties of the Office of the Premier, or during a vacancy in the Office of the Premier, an office bearer in the order below acts as the Premier:

A member of the Executive council designated by the Premier
A member of the Executive Council designated by the other members of the Executive Council.
The Speaker, until the legislature designates one of its members.

The Executive Council unanimously resolved to appoint the MEC for Education, Ms Grizelda Cjiekella as Acting Premier for the duration of Premier Hazel Jenkins’ incapacity leave.

Premier Hazel Jenkins is currently recovering in the Kimberley Hospital and is attended to by a specialist team of doctors.

In arriving at this decision, the Executive Council collective also expressed its solidarity and support to the Jenkins family during this trying period.

Released by Office of the Premier

Contact person: Mafu Davids – 082 316 6000