Speaking at his first media briefing following Wednesday's announcement by President Thabo Mbeki of his nomination as premier, Rasool said: "Specific areas will have to be addressed... we are not satisfied with the levels of transformation."

Rasool said it should be easier to affect change, now that the "subtle" removal of blockages which would have been a problem in the former balance of power in the coalition could be effected.

"The major thrust of transformation... (would be) more efficient and effective service delivery," said Rasool.

Rasool said there was "greater freedom" now that the African National Congress had 45 percent of the provincial vote and was a stronger partner in the coalition with the New National party.

However, Rasool was quick to allay any fears of mass changes within the administration, saying he wouldn't "wield a scythe" in a bid for there to be sufficient continuity.

He spoke about reviewing projects that were undertaken by the NNP during their time at the helm of the province and which might prove unpopular, saying a "responsible" government would have to act and correct any wrongs.

Asked about the question of unity within the province and the ANC, Rasool said there was nothing more unifying than a victory, adding that the issue of factionalism within the ANC had been exaggerated.

"What I will do is to work with the national leadership to put together a Cabinet that is able to not just unite the ANC, but unite the people of the province."

Rasool, who was flanked by his wife Roshieda and parents Ismail and Aziza, refused to be drawn into speculation of the composition of his cabinet, which will be sworn in next Friday.

He predicted that once the citizens of the region have experienced five years of ANC rule, the "people then will make up their mind a lot more decisively in favour of the ANC."

Reliving the moment, "15.51 (Wednesday)", etched into his mind when Mbeki informed him of his nomination, Rasool said it was personally one of his greatest moments.

"Chief, how far is the Cabinet in the Western Cape?" Mbeki is said to have asked, before telling Rasool he was the president's choice.

Rasool's father Ismail, said they were "happy and elated" for their son.

"I didn't expect it as much as my wife did, (I) had my reservations," said Rasool Snr, who expressed confidence in his offspring's ability to deliver.

Rasool Jnr paid tribute to his wife and parents for supporting him, saying while politicians had developed "thick skins" to the stresses and pressures of the job, this was not a prerequisite for family.