AFRICAN MIRROR REPORTER
SOUTH African President Cyril Ramaphos has strongly rebuked his Finance Minister Tito Mbowei over out-turn remarks that made over the sacking of Zambian central bank governor Governor Denny Kalyalya.
After Zambian President Edgar Lungu removed and replaced him with former deputy finance minister Christopher Mphanza Mvunga. Mboweni took to Twitter to express his unhappiness.
Mboweni said: “Presidents in Africa must stop this nonsense of waking up in the morning and fire a central bank governor. You cannot do that. This is not some fiefdoms of yours! Your personal property?! No!
“That governor was a good fella. Why do we do these things as Africans. The president of Zambia must give us the reasons why he dismissed the governor or else hell is on his way. I will mobilise!!”
In a strongly-worded statement, the South African Presidency said: “President Ramaphosa wishes to assure the government and people of the Republic of Zambia that the unfortunate remarks do not reflect the views of the South African Government and its people. The issue is being addressed to ensure that such an incident does not occur again.
“South Africa and Zambia enjoy strong historical relations dating back to the days of the struggle against apartheid. South Africa remains committed to maintaining the deep and solid bonds of friendship between the peoples of South Africa and Zambia.”
Mboweni, a former governor of the South African Reserve Bank, anticipated the reaction to his comments.
On Sunday Mboweni: “Looks like I am in trouble about my statement on the dismissal of the Bank of Zambia governor. I stand by my statement. Central bank independence is key. Not negotiable. Let all central bankers speak out!”
