DA FedEx awaits Ramaphosa's next move

This was issued by the DA yesterday in response to the dismissal of DA MP Andrew Whitfield from his role as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.

Ramaphosa removed Whitfield, citing his failure to obtain proper approval for overseas travel earlier this year.

However, the DA has slammed the move as a political double standard, alleging Whitfield was targeted for his anti-corruption stance while several ANC ministers facing serious allegations remain in office.

“The Presidency can confirm that in terms of Section 93(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, President Cyril Ramaphosa has removed the Hon. Andrew Whitfield, MP, from the position of Deputy Minister for Trade, Industry and Competition,” read a statement issued by the Presidency.

READ MORE: Ramaphosa removes DA’s Whitfield from GNU cabinet

Speaking to Jacaranda FM News on Friday morning, DA spokesperson Karabo Khakhau said the party would assess Ramaphosa’s response—or lack thereof—before FedEx makes a final decision.

“Whilst we have assessed whether the president acts or does not act within 48 hours, once we have assessed that then FedEx will take the decision,” she said.

The DA’s ultimatum also includes the reinstatement of Whitfield and the dismissal of several ANC cabinet members accused of corruption.

“What would be accepted would be number one, for the president to reinstate Andrew Whitfield, number two it would be for the president to fire Minister Nobuhle Nkabane, to fire Minister Thembi Simelane, and to fire Deputy Minister David Mahlobo,” Khakhau said.

At a Thursday briefing, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni declined to confirm whether Ramaphosa is considering a Cabinet reshuffle, stating:

“The decision to appoint, or disappoint, or to remove or reshuffle ministers and deputy ministers is the sole prerogative of the president.”

The DA, however, insists Ramaphosa is applying double standards.

“Given this flagrant double standard, one is left with no choice but to conclude that hardworking DA Members of the Executive are now being fired for fighting corruption, not for committing corruption,” the party said in a statement.

Khakhau also revealed that the only communication the DA has received from the President came indirectly, via party leader John Steenhuisen, who was informed of Whitfield’s impending dismissal shortly before it was actioned.

“Even then, John Steenhuisen asked for 24 hours to engage with Whitfield, but three hours later the termination letter was issued. That is something that is not in good faith and we are waiting to see what happens,” she said.

Khakhau emphasized that the DA’s ultimatum is not an attempt to provoke instability but is instead intended to strengthen the Government of National Unity (GNU) and its anti-corruption efforts.

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