President Cyril Ramaphosa has reportedly removed Sisisi Tolashe as Minister of Social Development.
According to Cape Town ETC, the move follows weeks of public scrutiny over claims linked to Tolashe’s conduct while in office. The report said the decision came amid growing political pressure and public questions around governance in the department.
The Presidency had not yet issued a detailed public breakdown of the decision at the time of the report.
Allegations Placed Tolashe Under Pressure
Cape Town ETC reported that the allegations included claims about undeclared luxury vehicles allegedly received from a Chinese delegation. The report also pointed to questions around staff appointments and accusations that state resources were improperly used to fund personal household support services.
Tolashe had previously said her future in the position rested with the President. Her reported removal now places fresh focus on accountability inside government, especially in departments that serve vulnerable communities.
Opposition Parties Pushed for Action
The report said opposition parties had increased pressure on the Presidency before the move.
According to Cape Town ETC, both the Democratic Alliance and ActionSA reportedly laid criminal charges against Tolashe. The DA had also called for her removal from Cabinet.
Cape Town Mayor and DA leader Geordin Hill-Lewis previously wrote to Ramaphosa, urging him to act decisively.
Sindisiwe Chikunga Steps in
Following the reported Cabinet change, Sindisiwe Chikunga has been appointed as acting Minister of Social Development.
Chikunga currently serves as Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities. Her appointment is expected to be temporary while the country waits for a formal announcement on a permanent replacement.
Public Reaction Grows Online
The reported firing quickly sparked debate online.
Cape Town ETC said South Africans shared mixed reactions, with some supporting the move as a step towards accountability while others raised concerns about instability in Cabinet.
The development comes as government faces growing public pressure over spending, service delivery and ethical leadership.
For many South Africans, the Social Development portfolio is not just another Cabinet post. It oversees services linked to welfare and support for vulnerable people, making trust in its leadership especially important.
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