Less than a week after Sisisi Tolashe was removed as Social Development Minister, her interim successor Sindisiwe Chikunga used her budget speech in Parliament on Tuesday to acknowledge the work of her predecessor.
Chikunga, who also serves as Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, is temporarily overseeing the Department of Social Development until President Cyril Ramaphosa appoints a permanent replacement.
Delivering the department’s budget vote, Chikunga said: “I wish to express my appreciation to former minister Tolashe for the work she has done in stabilising the department as well as stabilising its entities.”
Social Development Policy Delays Draw Parliamentary Criticism
While Chikunga offered praise for Tolashe, Bridget Masango, chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Social Development, sharply criticised the department’s slow progress in finalising important legislation.
Masango said it was troubling that the White Paper on Social Development had stalled despite already being submitted to Cabinet for approval.
“The delays in finalising this policy and its related legislation continue to negatively affect service delivery, accountability, and the optimal functioning of the department itself.”
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Masango also voiced disappointment over unexplained setbacks in legislation intended to strengthen protections for children.
In addition, she said officials had offered flippant responses regarding the department’s failure to produce regulations needed to fully implement the Older Persons Act.
Tolashe Removed Following ANC Car Donation Controversy
President Ramaphosa dismissed Tolashe last week after months of controversy surrounding appointments within the department and allegations involving a donation of vehicles to the African National Congress (ANC) that reportedly ended up with her children.
Chikunga has since taken on the role in an acting capacity while continuing her duties in the Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities portfolio.
