The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for newly appointed Social Development Minister Dina Pule to undergo a lifestyle audit following her return to Cabinet. The demand comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Pule to replace former minister Sisisi Tolashe.
Pule’s appointment has reignited debate over accountability in government because she was previously dismissed from Cabinet following allegations of corruption, maladministration and other controversies linked to her tenure as communications minister under former president Jacob Zuma.
Despite the criticism, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has defended the appointment, saying the governing party believes Pule deserves another opportunity.
Dina Pule Appointment Defended By ANC
The Dina Pule appointment has attracted criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups. However, Mbalula said the ANC had taken note of the concerns but remained confident in the president’s decision.
Addressing the media, Mbalula said the governing party believes in giving people a second chance after they have faced the consequences of their actions.
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He said the ANC believes Pule has learnt from her past mistakes and is capable of serving effectively in her new role.
DA Demands Lifestyle Audit For Dina Pule
The DA has formally written to the Presidency requesting that Pule be subjected to a lifestyle audit. The party argues that the assessment is necessary given the controversies surrounding her previous term in government.
The opposition has questioned Ramaphosa’s decision to appoint Pule despite her past dismissal from Cabinet. It maintains that public confidence in government depends on greater transparency and accountability.
The call for a lifestyle audit forms part of the DA’s broader push for stricter oversight of public office bearers.
Cabinet Appointment Sparks Political Debate
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The appointment of Dina Pule has become one of the first major political controversies following Ramaphosa’s latest Cabinet changes. Supporters argue that rehabilitation and accountability can coexist, while critics believe past conduct should weigh more heavily in appointments to public office.
Mbalula has insisted that the ANC remains committed to the principle of giving individuals an opportunity to rebuild after mistakes. The DA, however, continues to oppose Pule’s appointment and is pressing ahead with its request for a lifestyle audit.
