Cabinet Reshuffle Sparks Debate: Ramaphosa Defends Ministerial Shifts

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent Cabinet reshuffle has drawn significant public criticism, especially over the decision to swap Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi with Thembi Simelane, the Justice and Constitutional Development Minister.

Announced late Tuesday, the reshuffle has raised questions about its timing and strategic intent. However, the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, defended the move, emphasizing that Cabinet appointments are entirely within the President’s authority.

Cabinet’s Stand on the Reshuffle

Speaking at a media briefing in Parliament, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni emphasized that Cabinet appointments are solely the President’s decision:

“The appointment, disappointment, and removal and shifting and movement of ministers is the sole prerogative of the President. It’s not Cabinet’s answers, we don’t discuss it. You are either called and informed, and that is the discussion between the Minister and the President.”

Public Reaction and Criticism

The reshuffle has faced backlash from various quarters:

• Opposition Parties have questioned the lack of transparency and justification for the move, describing it as a political maneuver rather than a strategic adjustment.
• Civil Society Groups have called for greater accountability, noting that such changes should align with governance priorities rather than individual discretion.
• Policy Experts have expressed concerns about the potential disruption caused by switching key ministers in portfolios that require stability and long-term focus.

Portfolio Implications

1. Human Settlements:
   • Kubayi, now heading Justice and Constitutional Development, had been involved in addressing critical housing backlogs and urban development challenges.
   • Simelane, stepping into Kubayi’s role, may face a steep learning curve amid ongoing housing crises.
2. Justice and Constitutional Development:
   • This portfolio deals with significant issues like judicial reform, constitutional matters, and access to justice, areas where Kubayi’s expertise will be tested.

While Cabinet reshuffles are standard in governance, critics argue that the timing and manner of this decision fail to address the urgent issues facing South Africa. Observers note that the reshuffle may have been politically motivated, as it comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Ramaphosa administration’s performance.

The President’s defenders, however, argue that the move reflects his prerogative to adjust the Cabinet for optimal functionality.