Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has reaffirmed his unwavering support for the province’s controversial crime wardens, AmaPanyaza. Despite criticism and legal findings from the Public Protector, Lesufi maintains that the wardens are here to stay. His passionate declaration, “I’m going to die with you,” has sparked national debate.
Who Are the AmaPanyaza?
AmaPanyaza, officially known as Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens, were launched in 2023 as part of a provincial initiative to tackle rising crime in under-policed areas. Over 8,900 wardens were deployed to assist law enforcement with foot patrols, recover stolen goods, and disrupt criminal activity. The wardens participated in more than 51,000 police operations within just five months.
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Lesufi Vows Loyalty to AmaPanyaza
Lesufi’s recent address to the wardens in Johannesburg was both emotional and defiant. In the wake of a damning report from Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka, he promised not to abandon the programme.
“Where you’re going to die, I’m going to die with you. I’ll never abandon you,” he declared.
He praised AmaPanyaza for restoring safety in crime-ridden areas like Johannesburg’s CBD. Lesufi noted that residents can now walk freely and use their phones in public. He credited the wardens for shutting down illegal scrapyards and helping to return stolen vehicles to rightful owners.
Legal Controversy: Public Protector’s Report
Despite public praise, AmaPanyaza has come under legal scrutiny. A 2025 report by the Public Protector concluded that the programme was established without a legal framework. The Gauteng government failed to follow constitutional processes in recruiting, training, and deploying the wardens.
The report noted that although the wardens were designated as peace officers by former Justice Minister Ronald Lamola in 2023, they have not been certified by the South African Police Service (SAPS). This means they currently lack the authority to perform peace officer duties or carry firearms.
Transition to Gauteng Traffic Police
In response to legal challenges, Lesufi has announced a 36-month repurposing plan. The wardens will be trained and certified to become Gauteng Traffic Police officers. This move is intended to align the programme with national legislation and ensure compliance with law enforcement standards.
“We are disbanding them in their current form to professionalise and legitimise their powers,” Lesufi said in an earlier statement.
While the programme will evolve, Lesufi insists that no jobs will be lost. The wardens will remain active during the transition phase and continue supporting community safety operations.
Financial Scrutiny and Political Fallout
The AmaPanyaza initiative has also attracted criticism for its cost. According to the Gauteng Department of Community Safety, over R172 million was allocated in November 2022 alone. These funds covered recruitment, vehicles, training, and surveillance equipment like drones and helicopters.
Opposition parties, including the Democratic Alliance, have filed a motion of no confidence against Lesufi. They argue that the Premier ignored legal protocols and misused public funds.
Despite the backlash, Lesufi remains resolute. He views AmaPanyaza as a critical force in the fight against crime. His loyalty to the wardens, even under intense scrutiny, underscores his commitment to community-based safety interventions.
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A Delicate Balance
Lesufi’s vow of loyalty to AmaPanyaza highlights a complex intersection of legality, safety, and governance. As the repurposing plan unfolds, Gauteng residents and legal observers will be watching closely.
For now, Lesufi stands firm. “The relationship I have with you is not friendship. It is a mission to clean our province of criminals,” he told the wardens.
