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President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced changes to his national executive, while also appointing a panel to investigate security failures with respect to the recent violence in Kwazulu Natal and Gauteng.
Addressing the nation on Thursday night, Ramaphosa also confirmed the resignations of embattled former Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize, who is heavily embroiled in the Digital Vibes scandal, while “accepting the long-standing request” from the Finance Minister, Tito Mboweni, to step aside.
“Minister Mboweni took up this position following the sudden departure of former Minister Nhlanhla Nene in October 2018,” he said.
In a major development, Ramaphosa did away with the Ministry of State Security and placed political responsibility for the State Security Agency in the Presidency.
“This is to ensure that the country’s domestic and foreign intelligence services more effectively enable the President to exercise his responsibility to safeguard the security and integrity of the nation,” Ramaphosa said.
Zizi Kodwa was named Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for State Security.
The President also appointed a panel under Professor Sandy Africa, to undertake a “thorough and critical review” of the preparedness and the shortcomings in the state’s response to the recent violence in Kwazulu Natal and Gauteng.
“The panel will examine all aspects of our security response and will make recommendations on strengthening our capabilities,” Ramaphosa said.
He also separated the Ministry of Human Settlements from the Ministry of Water and Sanitation.
Ramaphosa said former Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula will be deployed to a new position.
