The Democratic Alliance (DA) has announced a major reshuffle of its representatives serving in the Government of National Unity (GNU), with party leader John Steenhuisen moved from his role as Minister of Agriculture to Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.
Steenhuisen will be replaced by former Environment Minister Willie Aucamp, who takes over the agriculture portfolio at a time when the sector is grappling with challenges including the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak.
According to the DA, one of Aucamp's immediate priorities will be addressing legal disputes surrounding South Africa's response to the outbreak. The move follows a recent Pretoria High Court ruling allowing farmers to independently import and administer FMD vaccines without government involvement.
The reshuffle also sees Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier appointed as the new Minister of Environment.
Meanwhile, Alexandra Abrahams has been moved from the Trade, Industry and Competition portfolio to serve as Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy.
Yusuf Cassim has been appointed Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, while Gauteng politician Jack Bloom will assume the role of Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation.
Announcing the changes, DA leader Geordin Hill-Lewis said the party was committed to ensuring that its representatives in government remain focused on delivering results rather than viewing positions as entitlements.
"The DA does not believe that positions are an entitlement. Every representative of the DA who serves in government does so to advance our mission of growing the economy, creating jobs, fighting corruption and delivering the DA difference to all South Africans," Hill-Lewis said.
"As the DA grows and assumes greater responsibility in government, South Africans should see a party that is prepared to make difficult decisions and always put the country first. That is the DA difference, and I intend to ensure it is visible in every portfolio we lead."
The DA said the reshuffle is intended to strengthen its contribution to the GNU and position experienced leaders in portfolios where they can have the greatest impact.