The composition of the Cabinet and the appointment of Deputy Ministers is the prerogative of the President. The President is under no obligation to explain the reasons for his actions in this regard. However, I did indicate on 31 October, when we announced changes to the national executive, that, having spent 17 months in government, we have had time to study the functioning of the current administration and we were able to ascertain what works and what needs to be changed or strengthened.
We were guided by the mission of our government, which is to improve the quality of life of all South Africans, especially the poor, working with all our people. I wish to take this opportunity to thank the former members of Cabinet for their contribution to government and to the nation during their term of office. I thank you. [Applause.]