Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe ejected from position by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Image: Jairus Mmutle / GCIS
President Cyril Ramaphosa has bowed to pressure from the DA and removed Sisisi Tolashe as Minister of Social Development in a sudden Cabinet shake-up announced on Thursday.
In a statement released by the Presidency, Ramaphosa confirmed that Tolashe was dismissed in terms of Section 91(2) of the Constitution, which gives the president authority to appoint and remove ministers.
According to reports, DA leader, Geordin Hill-Lewis wrote to Ramaphosa on April 30 demanding that the president fire Tolashe.
On Thursday, Ramaphosa relented fired Tolashe, however, the Presidency did not provide reasons for her removal.
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has been appointed acting Minister of Social Development until a permanent replacement is named.
The move places fresh attention on leadership within the Social Development Department, which oversees critical welfare programmes affecting millions of South Africans.
Tolashe, an ANC Women’s League President, had recently faced growing scrutiny over allegedly registering donated vehicles to the league under her children’s names.
Ramaphosa’s decision is expected to trigger political debate, with opposition parties likely to demand clarity on the reasons behind the abrupt dismissal.
He is expected to answer oral questions at 2pm in Parliament.
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