Cape Town – Former Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has responded to critics following her appointment as the new Minister of Defence and Military Veterans by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Despite the backlash and social media memes questioning her suitability, Motshekga remains undeterred, saying that she is used to criticism and has many supporters.
“I’m used to naysayers so it is part of the terrain… what I know from experience, you have a million well-wishers [and] you have 10,000 loud mouths. So you should not ignore the fact that millions of people wish you well,” she said during an interview with eNCA ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of the new cabinet on Wednesday.
Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Designate Angie Motshekga spoke to eNCA senior reporter Siphamandla Goge at the swearing-in ceremony in Cape Town. More details on #eNCA #DStv403 #QuestionThinkAct pic.twitter.com/2gvlSkoEH5
— eNCA (@eNCA) July 3, 2024
Motshekga acknowledged the challenges of budget cuts to the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) but expressed readiness to tackle issues with the resources available.
She said that Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has approved funds to recapitalise the army.
Motshekga’s political career began during the anti-apartheid struggle.
She has held various roles, including MEC for Social Development and Education, and has extensive experience in teaching and education administration. Motshekga holds several degrees in education and served as the Basic Education minister from 2009 until her recent appointment to the Defence portfolio.
She has also been involved in the ANC Women’s League and is a member of the ANC National Executive and Working Committees.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
