President Ramaphosa Open to DA‑Led Cabinet Reshuffle, Sources Say
President Cyril Ramaphosa has indicated a willingness to consider a request from Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Geordin Hill‑Lewis to reshuffle the coalition cabinet, according to individuals familiar with the discussions. The request, delivered in writing earlier this week, seeks to realign DA‑appointed ministers and deputy ministers so that they more closely reflect the party’s policy outlook and commitment to good governance.
Background: Hill‑Lewis’s Request and Motivation
Hill‑Lewis, who succeeded former DA leader John Steenhuisen as party leader in April 2024, framed the reshuffle as a step toward strengthening the DA’s influence within the Government of National Unity (GNU). In a public statement on Wednesday, he said:
“I fully expect that every person who represents the DA in government must unequivocally demonstrate the ‘DA difference’ in action. This requires a government rooted in our philosophical outlook, with higher standards of public service and an absolute commitment to integrity.”
He added that the changes would help the DA advance its vision of an open society with opportunities for all South Africans.
Proposed Changes to the GNU Cabinet
The letter outlines a series of specific swaps and new appointments:
- Former DA leader John Steenhuisen would move from his current role to become Deputy Minister for Trade, Industry and Competition, replacing Alexandra Abrahams.
- Abrahams would be shifted to Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy.
- Environment Minister Wille Aucamp would take over the portfolio previously held by Steenhuisen, with a mandate to address foot‑and‑mouth disease outbreaks, restore sector confidence, and open new export markets for agricultural products.
- David Maynier, who has held senior portfolio roles in the National Assembly and the Western Cape Government, would be appointed Minister for Forestry, Fisheries and Environment.
- Yusuf Cassim, a former student politician with experience on the higher education portfolio committee, would become Deputy Minister for Higher Education and Training.
- Jack Bloom, the most senior member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, would assume the role of Deputy Minister for Water and Sanitation.
Hill‑Lewis emphasized that Minister Aucamp’s immediate focus would be on resolving ongoing court cases related to foot‑and‑mouth disease, working with the agricultural sector to overcome the crisis, and accelerating practical steps to bring the situation under control.
Implications for the Government of National Unity
The GNU, formed after the 2024 national elections, brings together the ANC, DA, and several smaller parties to ensure broad‑based governance. A DA‑driven reshuffle could signal the party’s intent to assert greater influence over key economic portfolios, particularly trade, industry, and agriculture—areas where the DA has historically advocated for market‑friendly policies and stricter anti‑corruption measures.
Analysts note that such a shift may also affect the balance of power within the cabinet, potentially prompting negotiations with the ANC over ministerial allocations. However, sources in the presidential office stress that no final decision has been made regarding timing, and any changes are likely to be implemented before the end of June 2024 if approved.
What Comes Next?
President Ramaphosa’s office has indicated that it will review the DA’s proposal in consultation with coalition partners. The timeline for a formal announcement remains uncertain, but officials suggest that a decision could be reached within the coming weeks, allowing the reshuffle to take effect before the mid‑year budget cycle.
For observers of South African politics, the development underscores the ongoing negotiation dynamics within the GNU and highlights how leadership changes within constituent parties can ripple through the executive branch. Continued transparency and adherence to constitutional processes will be essential to maintain public trust as the coalition navigates these internal adjustments.
