Ramaphosa’s reshuffle of Simelane exposes ANC’s deep-rooted corruption challenges and leadership dilemmas (Photo by RODGER BOSCH / AFP) (Photo by RODGER BOSCH/AFP via Getty Images)
(EPICSTORIAN) – The South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent decision to move Thembi Simelane from her position as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development to Human Settlements — given her ongoing corruption allegations has provoked questions over the credibility of his leadership and the ruling African National Congress (ANC).
Simelane’s alleged ties to Ralliom Razwinane, who was implicated in the VBS Mutual Bank scandal, have been under the spotlight following investigative reports by Daily Maverick and News24.
The reports detailed her lavish lifestyle, suggesting a discrepancy between her official earnings and her apparent wealth. The revelations intensified on Tuesday, prompting swift action from the presidency. However, questions linger about why Simelane was reassigned rather than dismissed.
Observers suggest that Ramaphosa’s reluctance to completely remove Simelane stems from the absence of formal charges against her. This pattern mirrors his approach to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who also faces unresolved corruption allegations.
Ramaphosa’s lukewarm Approach to Confronting Entrenched Corruption
This politically sensitive reshuffle, involving a swap with Mmamoloko Kubayi, has fueled debates among South Africans about Ramaphosa’s willingness to confront entrenched corruption.
According to analysts, Ramaphosa’s cautious stance, however, reflects his fragile power base and the political complexities within the ANC. Some critics argue that only charges from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) compel him to act decisively, highlighting systemic issues within the party’s governance.
This incident offers an insight, highlighting a broader issue within South African politics: the ANC’s historical defense of leaders under suspicion, dating back to the Jacob Zuma era. Despite public promises of reform, the ANC’s handling of corruption cases continues to erode voter confidence.
The party’s decline was evident in recent elections, where it experienced its lowest support since 1994, reflecting widespread disillusionment among South Africans.
Political Challenges Under Ramaphosa
Since assuming office in 2018, Cyril Ramaphosa has faced mounting challenges in addressing corruption, economic stagnation, and public sector dysfunction.
His administration’s anti-corruption drive has been marred by internal resistance and allegations against high-ranking officials, undermining his credibility.
The ANC remains fractured, with factions loyal to former President Jacob Zuma opposing Ramaphosa’s reform agenda, complicating efforts to unify the party and restore public trust.
South Africa’s persistent issues—such as load shedding, unemployment exceeding 30%, and a weakened economy—further strain Ramaphosa’s leadership amid growing discontent among citizens and opposition parties preparing for a competitive 2024 election cycle.
