ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has expressed strong disapproval of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to place the Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu on leave, calling it an act of political self-preservation rather than decisive leadership.
Mashaba’s comments came during a televised interview following the president’s address to the nation, where he questioned the timing and motives behind the move.
Lack of Consultation in GNU
Mashaba criticized the president for failing to consult coalition partners in the Government of National Unity (GNU), particularly the Democratic Alliance (DA), before making such a significant decision.
“If we as South Africans are serious about successful coalitions, consultation is key—especially on matters of this nature,” Mashaba said. “The president may have the constitutional right to appoint ministers, but in a coalition government, major decisions must involve partners.”
He expressed surprise that the DA, as a senior GNU partner, had not raised objections to the unilateral decision.
Political Self-Protection Alleged
Mashaba accused Ramaphosa of avoiding accountability by deferring responsibility to external structures rather than making tough decisions himself.
“There’s absolutely no doubt that this decision was about protecting himself politically,” Mashaba asserted. “South Africans voted for leadership, but instead, we have a president outsourcing critical decisions outside our constitutional framework.”
He also questioned why a deputy minister was not appointed as an interim replacement, highlighting what he called wasteful expenditure in a struggling economy.
Concerns Over Budget and Governance
The ActionSA leader further warned of looming challenges, including the potential failure of the upcoming national budget.
“We are facing a massive crisis,” Mashaba said. “With the budget at risk and leadership lacking, President Ramaphosa has been the biggest disappointment in leading this country.”
Conclusion
Mashaba’s remarks underscore growing dissatisfaction with the GNU’s decision-making processes and raise concerns about the stability of South Africa’s coalition government. As political tensions rise, the president faces increasing scrutiny over his leadership style and commitment to collaborative governance.