Ramaphosa considers DA's reshuffle request amid voter registration push

President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Image: GCIS

ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa, who visited the community of Katlehong in the East Rand on Saturday as part of the party's voter registration weekend, says he is still applying his mind to the request by the DA to sack Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen and replace him with Willie Aucamp.

On Saturday, Ramaphosa went to the Katlehong Technical School Voting District, urging young people and first-time voters to register and check their voter details ahead of the anticipated 2026 local government elections.

During the election drive, the President addressed the DA's recent leadership changes, including the removal of former party leader John Steenhuisen from his post as Minister of Agriculture, and his subsequent demotion to deputy minister. This reshuffle, orchestrated by the DA's current leader, Geordin Hill-Lewis, is part of a larger strategy to optimise the party's representation in the Government of National Unity (GNU).

President Cyril Ramaphosa took his second day of the voter registration weekend to the City of Tshwane on Sunday, where he urged young people to vote for the ANC.

Image: MyANC X Account

Despite the DA's attempt to influence the reshuffle, Ramaphosa clarified the constitutional framework surrounding ministerial appointments, stating: "The ministers that the President appoints are the appointees of the President. In terms of our constitution, only the President appoints ministers."

He emphasised that suggestions from coalition partners like the DA are just that—suggestions—and he would take his time to consider the request comprehensively.

Ramaphosa also acknowledged the importance of active political participation.

"This weekend is voter registration week, and I would like to call on all people in our country to go and register to vote, especially ANC members. There is a massive groundswell of young people coming to register to vote. I think that this is very positive," he said, highlighting the role of youth engagement in the electoral process.

As voter registration weekend progresses, with Ramaphosa continuing his campaign in Tshwane, the focus remains on galvanising support and ensuring that eligible voters are adequately prepared ahead of the elections. "Active participation remains the foundation of our democracy and the key to building better communities," he added, reinforcing the message that every voice counts in the shaping of South Africa's governance.

Cape Times