SPORTS Arts and Culture MEC Nosimo Balindlela has been appointed as the first female premier of the Eastern Cape, the Daily Dispatch reported.

Balindlela, who was attending an exhibition in East London when she heard the news, said she was humbled by the president's announcement, according to the newspaper.
"I didn't know the president knows us so well.
I am grateful that I have been identified as premier."

She added: "I request the people of the Eastern Cape to pray for me and give me all the support they can. I will always be available to them. I would like to thank the people of this province for their support. I want to also say I will not abandon the poor."

Visit Daily Dispatch