Pule says past controversies will not define her as Social Development minister

By Akani Nkuna

Newly appointed Social Development Minister Dina Pule says her controversial past will not affect her ability to lead the department, insisting that criticism is inevitable for public officials who are actively doing their jobs.

Pule’s remarks came after the National Coalition of Social Services (NACOSS) called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to reconsider her appointment, arguing that the department requires leadership that commands public confidence and upholds the highest standards of ethical governance.

NACOSS said in a statement on Tuesday that it had submitted an open letter to the President requesting that Pule’s appointment be rescinded and that a new minister be appointed.

Pule addressed the criticism during her inaugural media briefing in Pretoria on Tuesday after being asked whether she viewed the appointment as an opportunity to redeem herself following her dismissal from Cabinet over ethical misconduct more than a decade ago.

“I usually do not want