Discussion | Dismissal sparks unity government rift

CAPE TOWN – Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen says South Africa’s future is at stake following the dismissal of Andrew Whitfield as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa removed Whitfield from his position without providing any formal explanation a decision the DA has condemned as unjust and politically motivated.

Whitfield, a DA Member of Parliament, was serving in the Government of National Unity (GNU).

Speaking on the matter, Whitfield said he was not given a formal reason for his removal. He had asked the President for permission following a previous incident but received no response.

“I apologised to the President, but I never received a response. I’ve made a lot of effort over the past four months since that incident” he said.

Despite the removal, Whitfield emphasised his ongoing commitment to public service and said he will seek ways to maintain key working relationships.

“I will remain committed to playing  serve in  roles. I will find ways to maintain relationships and South Africa is moving to coalition future ” he said.