South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has made official the departure of his deputy David Maboza thanking him for his “unwavering support” over the past five years, hailing his ably led engagements.
Ramaphosa made the announcement in Cape Town on Thursday during a state of the nation address debate. A cabinet reshuffle is expected in the coming weeks.
“I wish to extend my appreciation to Deputy President David Mabuza for his unwavering support over the last five years. He has ably led the South African National Aids Council and extensive engagements with military veterans and traditional leaders,” said Ramaphosa.
“He has supported peace-building efforts in South Sudan and led processes around land reform, among other things. Deputy President Mabuza has indicated his wish to step down from his position, a request that we are attending to,” said Ramaphosa.
Paul Mashatile, 61, ruling African National Congress’s former treasurer is widely expected to take over from him. Mashatile was elected to the influential post of ANC’s deputy president in December.
David Mabuza had revealed earlier this month that he had submitted his resignation.
Mabuza said he has to make space for Mashatile because he was elected to the conference. He also confirmed that he had spoken to Ramaphosa about his resignation and the two had an agreement that he would resign.
“I am making space for the one elected at the conference because I can see he (Mashatile) is also making a few moves. So now I am also in a rush to give them space. I spoke to the president and told him I would step down,” said Mabuza.
