Simelane Doesn’t Belong in Cabinet” – DA Slams Ramaphosa’s Reshuffle
Opposition party labels the move as “short-sighted” and questions the President's commitment to fighting corruption.
Democratic Alliance (DA) has strongly criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent cabinet reshuffle, labeling the redeployment of embattled Justice Minister Thembi Simelane to Minister of Human Settlements as “short-sighted and disrespectful to South Africa.”
On Tuesday night, the Presidency announced four executive changes, effective immediately, including the swopping of portfolios between Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi and Simelane. Kubayi is now the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, while Simelane assumes responsibility for the critical Human Settlements Department.
DA spokesperson Advocate Glynnis Breytenbach minced no words, stating that “Simelane doesn’t belong in Cabinet, end of story.” She criticized the President for failing to remove Simelane entirely, given her alleged corruption and ongoing investigations.
“Human Settlements is a vital department for providing housing to South Africans. It must be led by a credible individual,” Breytenbach added, accusing Ramaphosa of insincerity in his fight against corruption.
The reshuffle has sparked debate, with many questioning whether merely reassigning ministers with questionable reputations truly addresses the integrity of leadership within South Africa’s government. The DA has called on Ramaphosa to act decisively and remove Simelane entirely, stating, “Our country deserves better.”
