Tolashe’s removal draws praise from several political parties

Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe speaking at a government event.

Democratic Alliance (DA) MP, Nazley Sharif says the sacking of Sisisi Tolashe as Social Development Minister is a win for South Africans.

The DA had laid criminal charges against her in April and recently, party leader, Geordin Hill-Lewis wrote to President Cyril Ramaphosa calling for Tolashe’s removal.

Tolashe is facing a number of allegations, including misleading parliament about the vehicles she received from the Chinese on behalf of the African National Congress (ANC) Women’s League, the vehicles were allegedly found to be registered in her children’s names, as well as revelations about alleged irregular appointments and contract extensions in her department.

In a statement, President Ramaphosa announced that Tolashe has been removed from her position. Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga will serve as acting minister in the portfolio.

Public Protector

ActionSA says they want their criminal case and complaint to the Office of the Public Protector against the now sacked Minister to run its course.

ActionSA was one of the parties which laid a criminal complaint against Tolashe, relating to fraud and corruption.

The party’s Dereleen James says they are happy to hear of the dismissal.

“We absolutely welcome the decision by the president. ActionSA exposed first, the series of scandal. We want our criminal and Public Protector cases to run its course. All monies must be paid back from those who cooked CVs. We are really, really happy today.”

‘Good decision’

Rise Mzansi has also welcomed Tolashe’s removal.

“Given all the reports that have been happening, especially around appointment of the chief of staff and donations of cars, it is a good decision by President to dismiss her,” says Rise Mzansi’s MP, Makashule Gana.

‘Fire both Ramokgopa and Tolashe’

uMkhonto weSizwe (MK Party) Member of Parliament David Skosana says President Ramaphosa should also fire himself.

“He was supposed to fire both Ramokgopa and Tolashe, I am not sure why is he not firing Ramokgopa. And as well, he can fire everyone, but unfortunately he can’t fire himself, he must fire himself as well, the president must fire himself. We are expecting that and nothing less.”