The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has expressed concern over the size of President Cyril Ramaphosa's newly announced Cabinet.
However, trade union federations and the ANC's alliance partners sent their congratulations to the newly appointed ministers.
President Ramaphosa last night announced the cabinet that will form a Government of National Unity (GNU) following a series of consultations with various opposition parties.
The GNU is made up of 11 political parties: ANC, DA, PA, IFP, GOOD, PAC, FFP, UDM, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and UAT.
The President said his new administration would prioritize rapid, inclusive and sustainable growth, as well as creating a fairer society by tackling poverty and inequality.
“We wish them success, we want them to succeed, I think that's the most important thing. There are some things we're happy with, we think the cabinet is a bit too big, [too many] Deputy Minister.
But we are a little skeptical and we are going to be there to hold them accountable. Where they need help, we will be there. But the reality is, society needs the government to move quickly to address a lot of the challenges.”
Meanwhile, the South African Democratic Teachers' Union (SADTU) has voiced strong opposition to the Democratic Alliance (DA) leading the Department of Basic Education.
DA councillor Siviwe Gwalbe has been appointed to the role.
SADTU spokesperson Nomsa Chiembi expressed concern about the DA's education policies and the party's so-called anti-trade union stance.
“Historically, we have never had a good relationship with the DA because their policies have been anti-union. For a long time, the DA did not believe that unions had a right to exist. They have always made statements blaming SADTU for all the problems that exist in the education sector.
They always accuse us of being against education in the country, of being in charge of education, controlling the Ministry of Education, the Minister and so on.”
