Dina Pule pick tests ANC’s renewal agenda

Her Cabinet appointment tarnishes Ramaphosa’s political image

- BHEKI MNGOMEZULU

ON WEDNESDAY, July 1, Acting Deputy Chief Justice Nonkosi Mhlantla presided over the swearing-in of new ministers and deputy ministers.

ON WEDNESDAY, July 1, Acting Deputy Chief Justice Nonkosi Mhlantla presided over the swearing-in of new ministers and deputy ministers. During this event, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the names of the three ministers and four deputy ministers.

While there was nothing strange about these appointments, a few questions arise.

Firstly, was this Cabinet reshuffle initiated by the president, or was it an initiative by Geordin Hill-Lewis, the newly elected DA leader?

Secondly, was the appointment of Dina Pule justifiable given her history?

Thirdly, how will her appointment affect the ANC’s renewal agenda and its preparation for the upcoming local government elections (LGE)?

Fourthly, what do these appointments say about the operation of the multiparty coalition government?

Fifthly and most importantly, how will this Cabinet reshuffle impact Ramaphosa’s personal political stature?

In addressing these questions, it is important to reflect on the Constitution from where the president derives his powers. Section 84(e) states that the president is responsible for “making any appointments that the Constitution or legislation requires the President to make”.

Section 91(2) states that “The President appoints the Deputy President and Ministers, assigns their powers and functions, and may dismiss them”.

Section 93(1) states that “The President may appoint — (a) any number of Deputy Ministers from among the members of the National Assembly; and (b) no more than two Deputy Ministers from outside the Assembly.”