Chairperson, President Jacob Zuma's announcement yesterday that the Minister of Public Works, Gwen Mahlangu- Nkabinde, and Minister for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Sicelo Shiceka, had been dismissed, is an important victory for accountability.
Minister Mahlangu-Nkabinde and Minister Shiceka abused their positions, and it is right that they have been removed from office.
We also trust that the suspended National Police Commissioner, Bheki Cele, will be fired too, should the board of inquiry appointed to investigate his actions in the police lease deal scandal corroborate the findings of the Public Protector. In taking decisive action, the President has reaffirmed his government's commitment to the role of the Public Protector and other Chapter 9 institutions.
This must be applauded. These institutions play an important role in promoting and protecting the strength of our democracy.
The President himself has described his administration as failing to deliver due to a crisis of accountability. For us to tackle the challenges facing our country and to deliver opportunities for all, those at the highest levels of government must take full responsibility for their actions and meet the highest standards of ethical conduct. Thank you. [Applause.]