STATEMENT BY PRESIDENT NELSON MANDELA ON CHANGES IN THE MINISTRY OF ARTS, CULTURE, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Issued by: Office of the President
I have considered afresh the continued appointment of Mrs Nomzamo Winnie Mandela to the post of Deputy Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology. I have done so at the earliest opportunity after my return from the visit abroad, to minimise any uncertainties and confusion which her dismissal and reinstatement might cause her, the Departments concerned, the Government and the country.
I have also had the opportunity to consult fully with the Deputy Presidents and the leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party; and considered the papers filed in her court application for reinstatement.
After due reflection, I have decided, in accordance with the powers vested in me by the Constitution, to terminate Mrs Winnie Mandela's appointment; and to appoint Mrs Brigitte Mabandla to the post of Deputy Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology. This will take effect on Tuesday 18 April 1995.
I wish to add that the appointment of Ministers and Deputy Ministers, more particularly those from the ranks of my own organisation, constitutes a political decision. This decision the President makes after due consultation and weighing up a myriad of factors which may or may not be related to the incumbent. The overriding consideration, as in this instance, is what the President believes is necessary in pursuit of good government and the interests of the country as a whole.
There is no requirement for reasons behind such decisions to be made public. Such a precedent would impact negatively on the ability of the Executive to govern well and wisely.
I would once again wish to thank Mrs Mandela for the service she has rendered to the Government. I sincerely hope that this action will help her to reflect and improve on her conduct in positions of leadership.
14 April 1995
Issued by:
President's Office
For further information contact:
Professor Jakes Gerwel
Secretary of Cabinet
Director-General - Office of the President
082-552-3531