African National Congress (ANC) presidential hopeful Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma was sworn in as a Member of Parliament (MP) on Thursday.

Dlamini-Zuma, who replaces Pule Mabe, was sworn in by the deputy speaker Lechesa Tsenoli along with Mathews Wolmarans who replaces Brian Molefe.

“As it is common practice in Parliament, the new MPs will immediately undergo an induction programme and be provided with all necessary tools of trade to assist them with carrying out their parliamentary duties without delay,” Parliament said in a short statement.

Shortly after it was announced the ANC would deploy Dlamini-Zuma to Parliament speculation was rife her move was indicative of an upcoming cabinet reshuffle.

Dlamini-Zuma has denied any knowledge of a reshuffle.

She launched her presidential campaign shortly after her term as chairperson of the African Union Commission came to an end in January this year. She enjoys the support of the ANC Women’s League as well as the party’s Youth League.