South African President has announced the new cabinet. (Image via New York Post)

South Africa Gets Gender-Balanced Cabinet

South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, announced a new cabinet and half of all ministers are women. It is the first time even in the country’s history to have women as the half of all ministers. Ramaphosa appointed Patricia de Lille as minister of infrastructure development. It was a surprised move from him, because de Lille is an opposition politician who stood for the Good Party. Meanwhile, Ramaphosa party, The African National Congress party won a general election back in May 8, 2019.

Verashni Pillay, a South African journalist stated that his move surprised everyone. However, it shows how astute Ramaphosa is.

The new cabinet announcement is welcomed by the citizen, as it represents gender equality. Tanya Cohen from Business Unity South Africa said that it’s good to have qualified ministers like Dr. Naledi Pandor, who is now the International Relations minister. With the announcement of the new cabinet, people are hoping these women can help in poverty alleviation among rural women.

Other than announcing the new cabinet, Mr. Ramaphosa made another changes in the amount of ministers. He has cut down the number of ministers, from 36 to 28 ministers. However, his decision is criticized because Mr. Ramaphosa also increased the number of deputy ministers.

Mr. Ramaphosa has previously pledged to root out corruption. However, he retained Deputy President, David Mabuza. Mr. Mabuza alleged of involvement in political killings and illegal tenders along with former President Jacob Zuma. Although Mr. Mabuza has denied the allegations, people are still raising their eyebrows to the case.  

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-48457310