President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a surprise reshuffle of the National Executive, handing the Democratic Alliance (DA) several key Cabinet and deputy ministerial positions in a move set to reshape the Government of National Unity (GNU).
The Presidency confirmed on Tuesday night that the changes followed consultations with the DA leadership and will affect the departments of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Trade, Industry and Competition, Electricity and Energy, Higher Education, Water and Sanitation, as well as Social Development.
Among the biggest appointments, Willem Aucamp has been named the new Minister of Agriculture, while David Maynier takes over as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
President Ramaphosa also appointed John Steenhuisen as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Alexandra Abrahams as Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy, Jack Bloom as Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, and Yusuf Cassim as Deputy Minister of Higher Education.
In another significant change, Dina Pule has been appointed Minister of Social Development, filling the vacancy left after the dismissal of former minister Sisisi Tolashe in May.
The Presidency said the appointments were made in accordance with Sections 91 and 93 of the Constitution, which empower the President to appoint ministers and deputy ministers from among members of the National Assembly.
“President Ramaphosa wishes all the incoming Ministers and Deputy Ministers well in their roles,” the Presidency said.
The latest reshuffle marks one of the most significant changes to the GNU since its formation, with the DA gaining greater representation in national government.
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