Cabinet Reshuffle Controversy: Simelane's New Role Sparks Outrage

In a recent move that has stirred controversy amidst South African politics, President Cyril Ramaphosa has shuffled his cabinet, triggering sharp criticism from opposition parties and civil society. The Democratic Alliance (DA) vocally disapproved of Ramaphosa’s decision to appoint the embroiled former Justice Minister Thembi Simelane as the new Minister of Human Settlements, a department pivotal to addressing the housing needs of millions of South Africans.\n\nThe cabinet reshuffle, which involved switching positions between Thembi Simelane and former Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, was announced suddenly on a Tuesday evening, with the changes being effective immediately. Kubayi now steps into the role of Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, a position recently held by Simelane.\n\nThis move comes amid lingering allegations against Simelane tied to a significant scandal involving a \"commercial loan\" she received from Gundo Wealth Solutions. The company is under scrutiny for its alleged involvement in the unauthorized investments of R349 million from the Polokwane Municipality into the now-collapsed VBS Mutual Bank. Despite Simelane’s robust denial of any misconduct and her claim of repaying the loan completely, her reappointment has not been well-received.\n\nDA spokesperson on Justice and Constitutional Development, Advocate Glynnis Breytenbach, sharply criticized the president’s decision, arguing that shifting Simelane to another ministerial role does not address the foundational issue ─ the ongoing corruption allegations against her. Breytenbach emphasized that the Human Settlements portfolio demands a leader beyond reproach, given its critical importance in enhancing the living conditions of South African citizens.\n\nSimilarly, ActionSA Parliamentary leader Athol Trollip called the reshuffle a \"cowardly\" act by Ramaphosa, suggesting that it highlighted the President's own vulnerabilities, notably referred to as his \"Phala Phala demons.\" Critics argue that Simelane's reassignment does little to convince the public of the government's alleged dedication to combating corruption within its ranks.\n\nIn response to the surrounding controversies, President Ramaphosa had previously assured the nation of his commitment not to disregard the allegations against Simelane, particularly those linked to the VBS Bank scandal. However, this recent cabinet reshuffle has raised serious doubts about his steadfastness in maintaining that promise, leading to broader discussions about the effectiveness of his anti-corruption pledge.\n\nAs South Africa continues to navigate through these complex political times, the implications of this reshuffle are likely to reverberate through the corridors of power, potentially impacting the President’s standing among his constituents and altering the political landscape significantly.