Ramaphosa Refuses to Comply with Steenhuisen’s Threats

Natalie Nyathi

President Cyril Ramaphosa has made it clear that he will not give in to demands from DA leader John Steenhuisen about removing ANC ministers. This comes after Steenhuisen issued an ultimatum for the president to dismiss ministers involved in wrongdoing within 48 hours, following the firing of Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition Andrew Whitfield.

After Whitfield’s dismissal, Steenhuisen warned that if Ramaphosa did not act on his demands, there would be serious consequences for South Africa. The president responded to Steenhuisen’s comments by calling them “intemperate” and emphasized his constitutional right to make such decisions. He explained that Whitfield was removed due to a clear violation of travel rules.

Ramaphosa also referenced past cases where similar actions were taken, mentioning former presidents Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki. The DA plans to hold a federal executive meeting soon, just before the deadline for Ramaphosa.

This exchange between Ramaphosa and Steenhuisen shows the ongoing political tensions in South Africa, with the president standing firm against pressure from opposition leaders.