Rise Mzansi Welcomes Removal of Higher Education Minister, Calls for Further Accountability

Rise Mzansi Welcomes Removal of Higher Education Minister, Calls for Further Accountability. Image for illustration purposes only, generated with AI.

Rise Mzansi has joined opposition parties in welcoming the removal of Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane as Minister of Higher Education, calling it a sign that “the days of untouchable ministers are far behind us.”

The party’s Head of Communication and Parliamentary Operations, Mabine Seabe, spoke in an interview following the announcement, crediting the Government of National Unity (GNU) for pressuring President Cyril Ramaphosa to act.

“This shows that various political parties, including the ANC, are holding ministers accountable,” Seabe said. “As Rise Mzansi, we campaigned for a safe, prosperous, and equal South Africa, and higher education is a critical gateway out of poverty.”

Timing of the Decision

When asked whether Ramaphosa had acted too slowly—given the prolonged controversy over the South African Board for People Practices (SABPP) appointments—Seabe defended the president’s decision.

“The damage was mitigated before it worsened,” he said. “We are seeing a president who understands that the ANC no longer governs alone but alongside other parties. We welcome his action and the appointment of [new minister] Buti Manamela, who we believe is a steady hand for the department.”

Seabe praised Manamela’s low-profile yet diligent approach as deputy minister, contrasting him with the “arrogance” of the outgoing minister. He expressed confidence that Manamela would ensure the department’s R142 billion budget is effectively used to expand education and skills development.

Calls for Continued Scrutiny

Despite Nkabane’s removal, Seabe insisted that accountability should not end there. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has argued that the former minister did not act alone in the SABPP saga, and Seabe agreed that further investigations are necessary.

“Her removal doesn’t mean the work is over,” he said. “The portfolio committee must continue its oversight, and she must still face parliamentary ethics committees, the Public Protector, and other charges.”

Resignation Before Committee Appearance

Nkabane’s departure came less than 24 hours before she was due to appear before the higher education portfolio committee. While some have questioned the timing, Seabe suggested it was linked to upcoming budget votes.

“I believe this was about ensuring the budget appropriation passes smoothly,” he said. “Some parties may now support it, allowing government services to continue without disruption.”

Conclusion

While Rise Mzansi celebrates Nkabane’s removal as a victory for accountability, Seabe emphasized that South Africans should only rest once full transparency is achieved. The party remains watchful as the GNU era ushers in a new dynamic of coalition governance.

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