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Phetolo Sematha and Nsuku Khosa
(The Post News)- President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the formation of the 7th Parliamentary Cabinet under the Government of National Unity (GNU) on Sunday evening, June 30.
This announcement comes after a watershed election held on May 29, which saw the African National Congress (ANC) fail to secure a majority for the first time in three decades.
The president’s announcement received mixed reactions. Some praised the inclusion of opposition leaders in key positions, while others worried about the representation of certain interests.
The GNU’s inception faced challenges, including delays, leaked correspondence, and late-night meetings, which raised concerns about confidence and stability.
Despite these issues, the successful formation of the GNU signals a new era of cooperative governance and a move away from divisive politics.
President Ramaphosa, in his address to the nation, emphasised the importance of collaboration across the political spectrum: “This Government of National Unity is a testament to our shared commitment to build a nation that is united, strong, and prosperous.”
The new cabinet under President Ramaphosa unites leaders from eleven political parties, including the African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi, and United African Transformation, forming a broad coalition across the political spectrum.
Key Cabinet Positions and Appointments:
Deputy President: Paul Mashatile (ANC)
Agriculture: Minister John Steenhuisen (DA), Deputy Minister Rosemary Nokuzola Capa (ANC)
Land Reform and Rural Development: Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso (PAC), Deputy Minister Chupu Stanley Mathabatha (ANC)
Basic Education: Minister Siviwe Gwarube (DA), Deputy Minister Reginah Mhaule (ANC)
Communications and Digital Technologies: Minister Solly Malatsi (DA), Deputy Minister Mondli Gungubele (ANC)
Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs: Minister Velinkosi Hlabisa (IFP),
Deputy Ministers Dickson Masemola (ANC), and Zolile Burns-Ncamashe (ANC)
Defence and Military Veterans: Minister Angie Motshekga (ANC), Deputy Ministers Bantu Holomisa (UDM), and Richard Mkhungo (ANC)
Electricity and Energy: Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa (ANC), Deputy Minister Samantha Graham (DA)
Science, Technology, and Innovation: Minister Blade Nzimande (ANC), Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina (ANC)
Employment and Labour: Minister Nomakhosazana Meth (ANC), Deputy Ministers Jomo Sibiya (ANC), and Phumzile Mgcina (ANC)
Finance: Minister Enoch Godongwana (ANC), Deputy Ministers David Masondo (ANC), and Ashor Sarupen (DA)
Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment: Minister Dion George (DA), Deputy Ministers Narend Singh (IFP), and Bernice Swarts (ANC)
Health: Minister Aaron Motsoaledi (ANC), Deputy Minister Joe Phaahla (ANC)
Minister of Home Affairs is Leon Schreiber, deputy minister of Home Affairs is Njabulo Nzuza.
Minister of Human Settlements is Mmamoloko Kubayi.
The President’s vision for the GNU is clear: to prioritise rapid, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth while creating a more equitable society.
“The establishment of the Government of National Unity in its current form is unprecedented in the history of our democracy,” President Ramaphosa stated.
He added, “We have had to consider how to form the new government in a manner that advances the national interest and makes use of the respective capabilities within each of the parties.”
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