CAPE TOWN – President Cyril Ramaphosa has formally requested a detailed explanation from Minister of Higher Education Nobuhle Nkabane following widespread backlash over her conduct during a recent portfolio committee meeting in Parliament.
The minister made headlines and sparked public outrage after she was seen chewing gum nonchalantly and responding dismissively to committee members, at one point telling the Portfolio Chairperson to “check Google” for answers.
Presidency Demands Accountability
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed on Tuesday that Ramaphosa was displeased with the minister’s attitude and has requested a full report on both her parliamentary decorum and the substance of her responses during the session.
“The president has requested the minister provide him with a detailed report on the decorum and substance of her engagement with Parliament,” Magwenya stated.
He added that Ramaphosa also wants clarity on the appointment process of Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) chairpersons, which has come under fire after allegations of ANC-linked nepotism.
Controversial Appointments Under Fire
The uproar intensified after it was revealed that some of the initial SETA appointees had ties to top ANC officials, including Gwede Mantashe’s son. The appointments were later rescinded, but Nkabane defended the initial decision, claiming the retraction was due to public pressure, not procedural flaws.
The opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), particularly MP Sihle Lonzi, were widely praised for their vocal opposition to the appointments and their calls for accountability.
“This is not how a minister should carry herself in Parliament. The people of South Africa deserve seriousness and respect, not arrogance and disrespect,” Lonzi said during the session.
Public Backlash and Political Fallout
Social media users sharply criticized Nkabane’s casual demeanor, with many calling for disciplinary action. Hashtags like #NkabaneMustGo and #GumGate trended as public frustration grew.
Analysts say the controversy puts pressure on Ramaphosa to take visible disciplinary action, especially as his administration continues to face questions about governance, transparency, and ANC-linked patronage.
