Ramaphosa’s Political Maneuverings in Allocating Portfolios
President Ramaphosa made strategic decisions in allocating portfolios in the new government, keeping the DA away from the coveted Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC). Instead, he appointed Parks Tau to head the DTIC, praising his role in the GNU deal negotiations.
Key areas overseen by the DTIC include industrial development, trade export, investment, and professional standards. The DA secured positions in other portfolios, with John Steenhuisen appointed as Minister of Agriculture.
Steenhuisen emphasized the party’s influence in pursuing economic growth and job creation. Other parties also gained significant positions in the cabinet, with IFP, FF Plus, and PAC leaders securing important portfolios.
Ramaphosa stressed the importance of deploying committed and capable individuals to drive the government’s agenda. While the effectiveness of the new team remains to be seen, Ramaphosa’s political balancing act has been noted.