The FF Plus has taken note of the announcement of Cabinet made by President Zuma. The new Cabinet is a totally new reshaping of the Cabinet and President Zuma has clearly put his stamp on it. This Cabinet can not be viewed as a Mbeki or Motlanthe Cabinet.

The fact that Mr. Trevor Manuel has been retained and is in charge of the very important new National Planning Commission is a positive step. So too the appointment of Mr. Pravin Gordhan as Minister of Finance is the right decision. His knowledge and experience at SARS will stand him in good stead to the advantage of the economy and the markets should welcome it.

Mr. Jeff Radebe's appointment as the new Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development is a fresh new start and should strategically be a good move.

The decision not to retain Barbara Hogan as Minister of Health but rather as Minister of Public Enterprises is a huge mistake. She has without a doubt had the trust of the medical profession and had made a positive impression with the new initiatives which she had brought about. The new Minister will now have to start anew.

Retaining Lulu Xingwana as Arts and Culture Minister is viewed in a negative light. It is an important department and the FF Plus is not convinced that she has the necessary feeling for the complicated cultural diversity of South Africa .

The appointment of Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula as the new Correctional Services Minister is a mistake. Correctional Services is a difficult Department which finds itself in a crisis and which needs a strong hand very urgently. This department did not get someone who has not displayed the necessary abilities.

Statement issued by Freedom Front Plus leader, Dr Pieter Mulder, May 10 2009

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