Cape Town – Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has dismissed concerns about a bloated Cabinet amid criticism of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 75-member executive.
The expansion to accommodate 11 parties in the government of national unity increased ministers from 30 to 32 and deputy ministers from 36 to 43.
Speaking to eNCA, Godongwana argued that the size is negligible compared to the over two million public service employees.
#eNCA senior reporter Siphamandla Goge has spotted the newly appointed Minster of Finance Enoch Godongwane at the swearing-in ceremony in Cape Town. More details on #eNCA #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/1B3NpWd79A
— eNCA (@eNCA) July 3, 2024
“I think in the circumstances in trying to construct a Cabinet which reflects this government of national unity, it is an understandable process. That’s the least of my problems about Cabinet [being bloated].
“Most people tend to focus on [75] people [but] when you look at the scheme of things of more than two million people employed in the public service, comparatively, it’s nothing,” Godongwana said.
Critics, including ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba, claim the new executive will cost over R1 billion annually.
The new coalition government has failed to prioritise reform, silencing the opposition’s calls for a smaller cabinet, and retaining ministers implicated in wrongdoing.
Contrary to his past commitments, President Cyril Ramaphosa has expanded the size of the cabinet, appointing 32… pic.twitter.com/U8MYqCbkNp
— ActionSA (@Action4SA) July 1, 2024
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
