Dion George axed for articulating views on international platforms that were not in line with Cabinet’s position - Ntshavheni

CAPE TOWN - A day after Fisheries, Forestry and Environment Minister Dion George was axed, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said he had been articulating views on international platforms that were not in line with Cabinet’s position.

On Wednesday, Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen dismissed reports that the decision to dismiss him was prompted by misconduct or underperformance.

George undertook his final trip as minister to Brazil this week for the world climate change conference, COP30, before he was dismissed by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday night at Steenhuisen’s behest.

Posting on social media on Thursday, George said that serving as a minister had been an honour.

Steenhuisen said that Georges refusal to swap the environment portfolio for that of deputy minister of trade resulted in his exit from the executive.

"I want to reject out of hand this notion of underperformance that’s being peddled. That’s not the basis on which the federal executive made the decision. We, obviously, make it to ensure we have our best foot forward."

On Thursday, Ntshavheni dismissed a draft Cabinet statement which was later retracted, that indicated South Africa’s presence at COP30 had been downgraded to observer status.

She said the matter had not been discussed at Wednesday’s meeting.

"South Africa will articulate its position on COP when Cabinet has considered the submissions."

Upon inquiry from EWN, the forestry, fisheries and environment department said the absence of a minister at the COP30 summit does not equate to downgrading the delegation’s status or its negotiating capacity.

"Our negotiators are fully mandated and continue to represent the country’s interests across all relevant negotiation streams."

In a social media post, George said that he carried out his ministerial duties without fear, favour or prejudice.

"Conservation is not a position, it’s a lifelong commitment, and I will continue to support this cause wherever I am called to serve. I wish the incoming minister every success."

DA spokesperson Willie Aucamp will replace George and is due to be sworn in on Monday.

JOIN US ON WHATSAPP

Stay ahead of the story: Join our WhatsApp channel today.

Want breaking news at your fingertips, the moment it happens? Our WhatsApp Channel is the fastest way to stay connected with the stories that matter most.

From breaking news alerts to exclusive stories, analysis and must-read features - you’ll get it all directly on your phone.

Joining is simple.

Just click Follow on our WhatsApp Channel and stay informed.