Security cluster gets facelift after deadly unrest
The country’s security cluster had a shake-up on Thursday evening when President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his new Cabinet from the Union Buildings in Tshwane.
The cluster faced growing criticism in recent weeks with Police Minister Bheki Cele, Intelligence Minister Ayanda Dlodlo and Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula embroiled in a bitter spat.
The trio’s battle follows the deadly unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng last month where more than 300 people died during wanton looting and damage to property in the two regions.
The subsequent intelligence reports pointed to a lack of preparation and a slow response on the part of the security cluster.
Despite the growing calls for a complete overhaul of the cluster, Cele survived the chop.
“The second change we are making is to do away with the Ministry of State Security and place political responsibility for the State Security Agency in the Presidency,” Ramaphosa said.
“This is to ensure that the country’s domestic and foreign intelligence services more effectively enable the President to exercise his responsibility to safeguard the security and integrity of the nation.”
Zizi Kodwa was appointed deputy minister in the Presidency responsible for the State Security portfolio.
Dlodlo was moved to Public Service and Administration, while Mapisa-Nqakula was left out of the new Cabinet.
“Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula will be deployed to a new position, and we thank her for service to the nation and dedication to her responsibilities,” Ramaphosa added.
National Assembly Speaker Thandi Modise now leads in Defence and Military Veterans.