President Cyril Ramaphosa has broken silence on the dismissal of Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition Andrew Whitfield.
He explained that Whitfield had undertaken an international visit without permission, saying he was removed from his post on June 25, under section 93(1) of the constitution.
“His travel to the United States was a clear violation of the rules and established practices governing the conduct of members of the executive. This requirement is known to all ministers and deputy ministers.
Minister knew about rules
“These rules and established practices were expressly communicated to all members of the executive during the induction sessions at the commencement of the 7th administration,” said Ramaphosa.
Ramaphosa emphasised that the rules around international travel by ministers are strictly observed by all members of his executive. And Whitfield’s decision to break this rule was deliberate.
He said DA leader John Steenhuisen was informed of the intention to dismiss Whitfield. He was asked to submit a replacement candidate, as the DA is entitled to a deputy minister post under the coalition agreement.
Ramaphosa said Steenhuisen confirmed Whitfield had already expected to be dismissed. He had submitted a “perfunctory letter of apology” to Ramaphosa after the trip.
Steenhuisen had also asked Ramaphosa if there was precedent for removing Whitfield under these circumstances. Ramaphosa replied that there was.
Dismissals not new
“I told him that in 1995, President Nelson Mandela dismissed the late Deputy President Madikizela-Mandela. And that in 2007, President Thabo Mbeki dismissed then Deputy Minister Nosizwe Madlana-Routledge. She was dismissed on the grounds of undertaking international travel without permission,” said Ramaphosa.
Despite this, Ramaphosa said he was shocked by Steenhuisen’s public reaction and the DA’s threats and ultimatums.
“Let it be clear that the president shall not yield to threats and ultimatums. Especially coming from members of the executive. The …same one that has the prerogative to appoint in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa,” said Ramaphosa.
