SOUTH AFRICA: WINNIE MANDELA IS SACKED FROM GOVERNMENT

(27 Mar 1995) English/Nat

Winnie Mandela has been sacked from the government by her estranged husband, South African President Nelson Mandela.

Mrs Mandela had been the Deputy Minister for Art, Culture and Science and Technology.

Her sacking rids the cabinet of a rebellious and divisive figure who publicly criticised its conservative economic policies.

President Mandela took the action after weeks of speculation about Mrs Mandela's future after she once more became the centre of controversy with outspoken remarks about the government.

There was also criticism of her "undemocratic leadership" of the African National Congress Women's League and an unauthorised state trip to West Africa.

The final straw apparently was a criminal investigation over allegations of corruption.

SOUNDBITE:
"As President of the Republic and head of the Government of National Unity I have relieved Mrs Nomzamo Winnie Mandela of her position as Deputy Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology. This decision has been taken both in the interests of good government and to ensure the highest standards of discipline among leading officials of the government of national unity. I have taken this decision after much reflection, given that comrade Winnie Mandela has in the past played an important role in the struggle against Apartheid. Both in her individual capacity and as a leading member of the ANC and the rest of the democratic movement. I hope that this action will help the former deputy minister to review and seek to improve on her won conduct in position of responsibility, so as to enable her to make a positive contribution to society, which her talents would enable her. In order to ensure this smooth function of government and uninterrupted service to the nation, I have appointed Brigitte Mabandla as the Deputy Minister of Arts, Culture and Science and Technology, she will assume this position with immediate effect. Brigitte Mabandla is a member of the National Executive Committee of the ANC.
SUPER CAPTION: Nelson Mandela, South African President

Already, opposition parties have praised Nelson Mandela's decision.

South Africa's Democratic Party says Mrs Mandela should never have been in government and President Mandela should not fear his estranged wife undermining his popularity.

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