South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reshuffled his government in depth on Thursday, 05 August 2021. These decisions were taken following demonstrations that have caused destruction, looting and other violence that have affected the Rainbow Nation in recent weeks, following the incarceration of former President Jacob Zuma.
This is the first time since his election in 2019 that Cyril Ramaphosa has overhauled his government in depth. Ten ministries are involved, including Finance, State Security and Health.
The Minister of National Security, Ayanda Dlodlo, is transferred to a smaller portfolio.This ministry disappears, Cyril Ramaphosa having decided to link the intelligence services directly to the services of the presidency.“Intelligence services, both internal and external, enable the President to more effectively exercise his responsibility to protect the security and integrity of the nation,” said the South African President. “
In the Ministry of Defence, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula de was replaced by the current Speaker of Parliament. The Minister of Health was forced to resign because of corruption.President Ramaphosa said he asked to “leave his post to bring stability to this important function.”
At the beginning of June, Zweli Mkhize was placed on “special leave” following the opening of a corruption investigation against two of his relatives.
In the Department of Finance the departure Tito Mboweni was replaced. Tito Mboweni, in office since 2018, was a respected figure, and although he has repeatedly expressed opinions contrary to the line of the ANC, his resignation is the biggest surprise of the reshuffle of the South African president.
