President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed Dr. Dion George as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, citing underperformance, and has appointed Willem Abraham Stephanus (Willie) Aucamp as his replacement.
The decision, announced through presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, was made in line with South Africa’s Constitution. Ramaphosa also appointed Alexandra Lilian Amelia Abrahams as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.
“I wish Mr. Aucamp and Ms. Abrahams well in their new portfolios,” the president said.
The move comes after reports of an imminent Cabinet reshuffle, following a request by Democratic Alliance (DA) leader and Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen. George, one of six DA ministers serving under the Government of National Unity (GNU), was reportedly replaced over concerns about his performance.
Steenhuisen, however, dismissed claims that external pressure influenced the decision. “The DA entered the Government of National Unity in June 2024 with a clear mission — to confront South Africa’s most urgent challenges and deliver tangible improvements in people’s lives,” he said.
He stressed the need for capable and committed leaders in all GNU roles, highlighting teamwork and integrity as essential to progress. “Every public official must work toward an agreed agenda. These appointments will strengthen the DA’s contribution to the GNU and advance much-needed reform,” he added.
Steenhuisen thanked Dr. George for his service and expressed confidence in Aucamp and Abrahams as they assume their new responsibilities.
Aucamp previously served as the DA’s national spokesperson and is expected to bring renewed energy to the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.