CAPE TOWN – President Cyril Ramaphosa has removed Dr Nobuhle Nkabane from her position as Minister of Higher Education and Training, replacing her with long-serving deputy minister Buti Manamela in a cabinet reshuffle announced on Monday.
The move comes after weeks of mounting pressure on Dr Nkabane, who faced severe criticism for misleading Parliament and treating MPs with what sources described as disdain during recent committee hearings. The controversial minister showed no remorse for her conduct, further damaging her standing within the African National Congress and government.
The writing was on the wall for Dr Nkabane last week when President Ramaphosa blocked her from undertaking an official trip to China, signalling that her days in the position were numbered.
Buti Kgwaridi Manamela, who has been promoted to the ministerial role, brings a decade of experience in the portfolio, having served as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training since the 6th administration. His appointment is widely viewed as a well-deserved recognition for his steady performance in the deputy role.
“Mr Manamela was, until this appointment, serving as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, a role he held from the 6th administration,” the Presidency said in a statement.
To fill the deputy minister vacancy, President Ramaphosa appointed Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, utilising constitutional provisions that allow the appointment of deputy ministers from outside the National Assembly. Dr Dube-Ncube brings extensive government leadership experience, having previously served as MEC for Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs and Premier of KwaZulu-Natal.
The cabinet changes come at a time when President Ramaphosa is facing broader political pressure within his administration. He was recently forced to suspend Police Minister Senzo Mchunu following allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner Senzo Mkhwanazi, adding to concerns about governance and accountability within the government.
The removal of Dr Nkabane represents the latest attempt by Ramaphosa to address growing criticism of his cabinet’s performance, particularly regarding ministers who have brought the ANC and government into disrepute through their conduct.
The appointments take immediate effect under Section 91(2) and Section 93(b) of the Constitution.
