PRETORIA — The Democratic Alliance has issued a strong rebuke against President Cyril Ramaphosa following his decision to appoint Dina Pule as the Minister of Social Development. The opposition party officially rejected the late-night cabinet reshuffle, labeling the President’s choice as deeply shocking given the critical nature of the portfolio.
The appointment was announced late last night, placing Pule at the helm of a department previously led by Sisisi Tolashe. Tolashe was removed from her position amid mounting allegations of irregular departmental appointments and the acceptance of undeclared gifts.
Democratic Alliance spokespersons emphasized that the Social Development portfolio is one of the most vital in the country, overseeing a massive portion of the national budget dedicated to social protection and the distribution of social grants. Because of these immense financial and societal responsibilities, the party argues the department demands a leader with absolutely impeccable credentials.
Instead, the DA points to Pule’s troubled political history. Years ago, she was ousted from her role as Minister of Communications in disgrace. During that tenure, the Public Protector leveled serious findings against her, citing improper conduct and maladministration.
Furthermore, Pule has a documented history of defying parliamentary ethics. She was previously reprimanded by lawmakers for a severe breach of the executive code of conduct. An investigation found that she willfully misled the ethics committee and lied under oath in a continued attempt to hide a relationship with her permanent companion.
This deception was ruled a direct violation of Section 96(2) of the Constitution, which forbids members of the executive from using their positions to improperly benefit others. Parliament ruled that her actions gravely undermined public trust and brought the legislative house into disrepute. As punishment, Pule was forced to stand and publicly apologize on the parliamentary floor, was suspended from her legislative duties for a couple of days, and was ordered to forfeit a full month of her salary.
Despite this track record of ethical breaches, Ramaphosa has brought her back into the cabinet to manage a highly demanding and heavily funded department. The Democratic Alliance suggests that this controversial move is a clear indication that the President is prioritizing the political interests of the ANC Women’s League over the ethical and effective governance of a crucial state department.