Ramaphosa's Strategic Move: Education Minister Removed Amid Tensions

South Africa's political landscape saw a significant shift as President Cyril Ramaphosa removed Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane from her post amid misconduct allegations. The move comes after the Democratic Alliance, a key coalition partner, accused Nkabane of facilitating appointments for individuals connected to the African National Congress on various boards.

Nkabane, maintaining her innocence, expressed gratitude for her time in office, asserting that she was privileged to serve. The Democratic Alliance welcomed the decision, intensifying its critique after Ramaphosa dismissed their deputy trade minister over an unauthorized overseas trip, further straining relations between the coalition's leading parties.

As tensions simmer, lawmakers are poised to deliberate on the crucial Appropriation Bill, a vital component of the national budget, on Wednesday. The Democratic Alliance has threatened to oppose budget approvals for departments overseen by ANC ministers they've accused, potentially disrupting budget proceedings.

(With inputs from agencies.)