Ramaphosa: DA's Whitfield was fired for unauthorised US trip
President Cyril Ramaphosa has broken his silence on the removal of the Democratic Alliance’s Andrew Whitfield as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, revealing that Whitfield undertook an international trip without the required presidential approval.
In a lengthy statement, Ramaphosa said that while it is not common for him to explain Executive appointments or dismissals, he felt compelled to address what he described as “unfortunate statements and outright distortions”, particularly from DA leader John Steenhuisen.
"His travel to the United States was a clear violation of the rules and established practices governing the conduct of Members of the Executive,” said Ramaphosa.
He stressed that these rules had been made clear during the induction of the seventh administration and were reiterated in a Cabinet meeting in March.
All international travel by ministers and their deputies must be approved by the President.
"This practice is rigorously observed and adhered to by all members of the Executive. However, Mr Whitfield deliberately chose to violate this rule and practice,” the President added.
Ramaphosa said he had informed Steenhuisen, in his capacity as DA leader, of the decision before Whitfield was formally dismissed, and had asked him to nominate a replacement, in line with the agreement of the government of national unity.
He also revealed that Whitfield had anticipated his dismissal and had sent a "perfunctory letter of apology" following his unauthorised trip.
According to Ramaphosa, this shows Whitfield was aware of the breach.
The President added that Steenhuisen had questioned whether there was any precedent for such an action.
Ramaphosa responded by citing two examples: the 1995 dismissal of the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela by President Nelson Mandela, and the 2007 dismissal of Nosizwe Madlala-Routledge by President Thabo Mbeki, both over unauthorised international travel.
Ramaphosa dismissed claims that Whitfield’s removal was politically motivated or linked to other issues.
"There is no basis for suggestions that the dismissal was related to any reason other than his failure to seek permission for international travel,” he said.
He also criticised the DA for issuing threats and ultimatums, including demands to fire other ministers facing controversy.
"Let it be clear that the President shall not yield to threats and ultimatums, especially from members of the Executive he appoints in line with the Constitution,” Ramaphosa concluded.
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