Following the abrupt resignation of Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, after his arrest on allegations of receiving R1.6 million in bribes during his tenure as State Security Deputy Minister, President Cyril Ramaphosa has acted swiftly to fill in the vacancy.
President Ramaphosa accepted Kodwa’s resignation, acknowledging his service to the nation as Deputy Minister of State Security from 2019 to 2023 and as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture from March 2023.
In a statement, the President expressed gratitude for Kodwa’s contributions but emphasized the need to maintain stability and continuity within the cabinet during this period of transition.
In response to this development, President Ramaphosa appointed Minister Maropene Ramokgopa as the acting Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture.
Ramokgopa will serve in this capacity until a permanent appointment is made under the forthcoming 7th administration.
This interim appointment aims to ensure that the functions of the ministry continue seamlessly and that there is no interruption in service delivery.
The charges against Kodwa stem from testimony given at the Zondo Commission in 2021, which investigated extensive corruption within the government and private sector.
The allegations involve IT company EOH Holdings, with Kodwa and his co-accused, former EOH executive Jehan Mackay, allegedly participating in corrupt activities.
Both individuals were released on R30,000 bail and are scheduled to appear in court again on 23 July.
The President’s quick decision to appoint an acting minister underscores his commitment to governance and the rule of law.
The administration remains focused on its mandate to serve the public and uphold the integrity of government institutions, even amidst challenges.
The developments in this case will be closely monitored as the judicial process unfolds.
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