By Charles Molele
President Cyril Ramaphosa has fired Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Minister Dion George over alleged “underperformance” in his portfolio and replaced him with DA national spokesperson Willie Aucamp.
Ramaphosa also announced the appointment of DA MP Alexandra Lilian Amelia Abrahams as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, replacing Andrew Whitfield.
Whitfield was dismissed in June after travelling to the United States without the president’s approval.
George’s removal, on the other hand, follows speculation that he had been offered the deputy trade minister position but declined it, despite being one of six DA ministers serving under the Government of National Unity (GNU).
“In accordance with section 91(3)(b) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, I have appointed Mr Willem Abraham Stephanus Aucamp as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment. Consequently, I have removed Dr Dion George from the portfolio in accordance with section 91(2) of the Constitution,” said Ramaphosa.
“Furthermore, I have appointed Ms Alexandra Lilian Amelia Abrahams as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, in accordance with section 93(1)(a) of the Constitution.”
Last night, DA leader and Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen welcomed the appointments, saying they will strengthen the party’s contribution to the GNU and advance the urgent reform agenda the country needs.
Steenhuisen also said the decision was not driven by external pressure or interests.
“The simple truth is that it is not,” he said.
“The DA entered the Government of National Unity in June 2024 with a clear mission: to confront South Africa’s most urgent challenges and deliver tangible improvements in the lives of our citizens. The DA currently holds twelve positions within the National Executive. It is therefore imperative that these roles are occupied by the most capable individuals our party has to offer — people who bring integrity, energy, and excellence to government.”
Steenhuisen added: “I thank Dr George for his service and look forward to working with him in other important roles. I wish Mr Aucamp and Ms Abrahams every success as they take up their new responsibilities in the Executive.”
INSIDE POLITICS