The government of South Africa has recently undergone major changes, with some new appointments being made to fill crucial positions. With David Mabuza’s formal resignation as an MP last week, Paul Mashatile has been sworn in as South Africa’s new deputy president. Mashatile defeated Ramaphosa’s chosen choice for the position, Oscar Mabuyane, by 2,178 votes to 1,858 during the ANC’s 55th elective conference in December of last year. With Fikile Mbalula’s election to the office of ANC Secretary General, a full-time position at Luthuli House, another appointment is Sindisiwe Chikunga as the next Minister of Transport. Formerly, Chikunga held the position of deputy minister for the ministry.
South Africa has undergone some recent changes in its government, with several new appointments being made to fill important roles. Paul Mashatile has been sworn in as the new Deputy President of South Africa, taking over from David Mabuza who officially resigned as an MP last week. Mashatile was elected as the ANC’s Deputy President during the party’s 55th elective conference in December last year, defeating Ramaphosa’s preferred deputy, Oscar Mabuyane, with 2,178 votes to 1,858.
Another appointment is Sindisiwe Chikunga as the new Minister of Transport, following Fikile Mbalula’s election to the ANC’s Secretary General position, a full-time role at Luthuli House. Chikunga had previously served as the deputy minister in the portfolio.
Meanwhile, Noxolo Kiviet has been appointed as the new Minister of Public Service and Administration. This move came after Former Minister Ayanda Dlodlo was appointed as an Executive Director on the board of the World Bank in the United States, with Minister of Employment and Labour Thulas Nxesi taking over on an interim basis. Kiviet, who had also previously served as deputy minister in the portfolio, has now taken over the role.
Sihle Zikalala, who was previously humiliated at the provincial conference last year, has been appointed as the new Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, replacing Patricia de Lille. Zikalala was rejected by the ANC KZN, who perceived him as being closer to Ramaphosa. They also tried to prevent him from becoming a NEC member, but he trounced his opponents, winning more votes than any other ANC member.
Despite remaining humble, Ramaphosa was keen to reward him with a senior-level position, bringing his ally closer to him.These changes come as Ramaphosa looks to solidify his position and bring those who support him closer to the seat of power. With many important roles being filled, the government is expected to continue functioning effectively and tackling the various issues facing South Africa today.