DA’s Andrew Whitfield axed as deputy minister
President Cyril Ramaphosa has removed the DA's Andrew Whitfield from his position of Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.
The announcement was made by the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni on Thursday.
It follows growing speculation about a cabinet reshuffle, believed to be linked to the controversy around Higher Education and Training Minister Nobuhle Nkabane’s handling of the SETA board appointments.
Nshavheni has denied that there will be a wholesale cabinet reshuffle.
"The president has thanked the former deputy minister for the time he served in the role. However, the president has not indicated any intention to conduct a wholesale cabinetry reshuffle.
"I have no answers to any questions. This is the sole prerogative of the president. My duty now was to convey the message to you."
At the same time, the DA's Helen Zille has convened an urgent meeting of the DA’s Federal Executive, after Whitfield's axing.
It's understood that it's around the composition of the National Executive of the Government of National Unity.
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