Tana Malinga

President Cyril Ramaphosa has removed Sisisi Tolashe as Minister of Social Development in a dramatic Cabinet shake-up that has sent shockwaves through South African politics.

The Presidency confirmed on Thursday that Sindisiwe Chikunga will take over as acting Minister while a permanent replacement is considered.

Tolashe’s dismissal follows months of mounting political and public pressure linked to allegations surrounding luxury vehicles reportedly donated to the ANC Women’s League and later connected to her children. Opposition parties, including the DA and ActionSA, intensified calls for accountability, demanding criminal and ethics investigations into the matter.

Her leadership within the Department of Social Development had also come under scrutiny amid allegations of governance failures and controversial appointments within her office. Parliamentary oversight pressure escalated after Tolashe recently appeared before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Social Development to answer questions relating to the growing scandal.

While the Presidency stopped short of outlining detailed reasons for the removal, political analysts view the decision as an attempt by Ramaphosa to reinforce accountability within the Government of National Unity and contain further reputational damage ahead of critical policy and budget battles.

Chikunga, a seasoned ANC leader and former Transport Minister, now steps into one of government’s most sensitive portfolios at a time when South Africa continues to battle rising poverty, unemployment and growing demands on social grants.

Tolashe had only assumed the Social Development portfolio in July 2024 following the formation of the Government of National Unity.