Ramaphosa Fires Back: President Slams DA's 'Intemperate Reaction' Over Whitfield Axing

President Cyril Ramaphosa

In a dramatic turn of events, President Cyril Ramaphosa has clarified the reasons behind the removal of DA member Andrew Whitfield as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, slamming the DA's leader, John Steenhuisen, for his "intemperate reaction" to the decision.

Ramaphosa's response comes after Steenhuisen accused the President of applying double standards and launching a "calculated political assault" on the DA by removing Whitfield over a minor issue while allowing corrupt ministers to remain in office.

Ramaphosa, however, has painted a different picture, saying that Whitfield's removal was necessary due to his failure to follow proper protocol and procedures. The President emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and was made in the best interests of the country.

"I'm afraid the DA's reaction to this matter is a classic case of blatant disregard for the truth," Ramaphosa said. "We're not going to be swayed by their ultimatums and threats. We'll do what's best for South Africa, not what's best for the DA's political interests."

The DA has given Ramaphosa a 48-hour ultimatum to fire several ANC-linked ministers and deputy ministers implicated in corruption, including Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane implicated in the VBS looting scandal, Higher Learning Minister Nobuhle Nkabane accused of misleading Parliament over an attempt to deploy corrupt cadres to SETA boards and Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo implicated in state capture. The DA's leader, John Steenhuisen, has warned that if Ramaphosa fails to comply, the coalition government will face further instability.

The standoff between Ramaphosa and the DA is a test of power and a demonstration of the party's commitment to fighting corruption. Will Ramaphosa comply with the DA's demands, or will the coalition government face further instability? The clock is ticking.

As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear the DA is determined to hold the government accountable and fight corruption. But Ramaphosa is equally determined to do what's best for South Africa, even if it means that the outcome of this standoff is far from certain.

The DA's ultimatum to Ramaphosa is a clear indication of its determination to see justice served and to ensure that those implicated in corruption are held accountable.

Ramaphosa's resolve to do what's best for South Africa is also clear. The President has emphasized that the decision to remove Whitfield was made in the best interests of the country, and he is determined to see it through. Ramaphosa's response to the DA's ultimatum is a testament to his commitment to good governance and his determination to lead the country in a direction that benefits all South Africans.