DA Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum to President Ramaphosa Over Deputy Minister Whitfield's Firing -

President Ramaphosa:

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has issued a stern 48-hour ultimatum to President Cyril Ramaphosa following the contentious dismissal of Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Andrew Whitfield. This move has sparked widespread debate about alleged corruption within the African National Congress (ANC) and the government’s refusal to take decisive action against implicated ministers.

Background of the Andrew Whitfield Dismissal

During the post-cabinet briefing, it was revealed that Deputy Minister Whitfield had been removed from his position without any accompanying plans for a cabinet reshuffle. The lack of transparency surrounding his firing has raised questions about the motives behind the decision, especially amid ongoing corruption allegations against certain members of the ANC cabinet.

The DA’s Response and Ultimatum

DA leader John Steenhuisen has publicly condemned the dismissal as a “calculated assault” on the Democratic Alliance, which is the second largest party in South Africa’s governing coalition. Steenhuisen accuses President Ramaphosa of showing a double standard by removing Whitfield for relatively minor procedural issues, while allowing ministers implicated in major corruption scandals to remain in office.

“This is a calculated assault on the second largest party in the governing coalition. What makes matters worse is that this unilateral decision is a result, and a product of a flagrant double standard,” said Steenhuisen.

Corruption Allegations in the ANC Cabinet

The DA has pointed to several serious corruption allegations involving ANC cabinet members. These include involvement in the infamous VBS Mutual Bank scandal, which saw public funds looted, as well as attempts to deploy corrupt cadres to boards of the Sector Education and Training Authorities (Seta). Despite these allegations, implicated ministers remain in office, causing public outrage and calls for accountability.

The VBS Mutual Bank Scandal

The VBS scandal is one of the largest state capture and corruption cases in recent South African history. Billions of rands were embezzled from the bank, with several high-profile politicians and officials accused of benefiting from the illicit activities. The DA demands the immediate removal and prosecution of those implicated.

Misleading Parliament and Deployment of Corrupt Cadres

Another point of contention is the alleged misleading of Parliament by certain ministers regarding attempts to place corrupt individuals on Seta boards. These boards play a crucial role in skills development and training funding, and the DA warns that corrupt appointments could jeopardize the integrity of public funds and programs.

The Broader Political Context

The firing of Andrew Whitfield has intensified political tensions within South Africa, highlighting fractures between the DA and ANC and raising broader questions about governance and integrity in the country. It also reflects the ongoing battle against corruption, which remains a major issue affecting public trust in government institutions.

What the DA Demands

Immediate removal of corrupt ANC ministers implicated in scandals.
Transparency and accountability in government decision-making.
Protection of the integrity of South Africa’s institutions.
Reinstatement or fair treatment for Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield.

Potential Consequences of Ignoring the Ultimatum

The DA warns that failure to comply with the ultimatum within 48 hours could lead to significant political consequences, including intensified protests, parliamentary actions, and erosion of public confidence in the Ramaphosa administration.

About the Democratic Alliance (DA)

The Democratic Alliance is South Africa’s official opposition party and advocates for transparency, anti-corruption measures, and good governance. The party has consistently campaigned against corruption and maladministration within the ANC-led government.

DA Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum to President Ramaphosa Over Deputy Minister Whitfield’s Firing