Diplomat Dlamini: Why Bathabile’s alleged redeployment has DA fuming

The presidency has slammed rumours initiated by the Democratic Alliance (DA), insinuating that Bathabile Dlamini will be appointed as South African ambassador.

The party has been “deeply concerned” with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s silence regarding the alleged appointment and sent Ramaphosa a letter on Friday, requesting clarity on the matter.

The controversy stems from Bruce Koloane’s resignation

Since Bruce Koloane, South African ex-ambassador to the Netherlands has officially resigned from public service at the Department of International Relations and Co-operation (Dirco); rumours have speculated.

During a question and answer session in Parliament, a Democratic Alliance MP, Darren Bergman, asked if there is any truth to rumours that Bathabile Dlamini would be appointed as the new ambassador.

“Government seems to insinuate that ambassador positions are given or handed to guilty or faulty officials in the patronage system. Can the Minister confirm that Bathabile Dlamini is being considered by the President as an ambassador and which other ex-ministers applications are being considered? ”

Darren Bergman MP , DA Shadow Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

Pandor is “all smiles” with the prospect of a new ambassador

Pandor answered that Cyril Ramaphosa will announce a new ambassador at an appropriate time, as she does not appoint ambassadors. Pandor further stated:

“But seeing that I’m smiling I’m sure you know why I’m smiling.”

Naledi Pandor, International Relations Minister

DA opposes the possibility of Dlamini being appointed as SA ambassador

The DA is worried that former Social Development Minister, Bathabile Dlamini, will be appointed as the new South African ambassador, and the party unanimously condemns Dlamini’s appointment as they have received information from a “trusted source”.

“The possible appointment of Dlamini as a Diplomat is cause for great concern and it appears as if such positions are reserved for politicians who are found guilty of misconduct during their term of service in a high executive office.”

Darren Bergman MP, DA Shadow Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

DA announces Constitutional Court findings on Dlamini’s transgressions as “grossly negligent”

The party further states that Constitutional Court findings on Dlamini’s transgressions proved that her conduct was “reckless and grossly negligent”; and that Dlamini used her position to mislead the court and to protect herself.

“The position of Minister of Social Development she had occupied at the time demanded a commitment to ethical behaviour, with a high commitment to public service. Instead, she used her position as Minister to place herself between constitutionally enshrined rights and those entitled to them.”

Darren Bergman MP, DA Shadow Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

South African Foreign Service diplomats are required to advance the country’s interests and DA insists Dlamini should not be a candidate.

“The DA believes that Ms Dlamini is not suited to hold the office of a diplomat and in light of the above, the appointment would constitute an irrational and unconstitutional decision.”

Darren Bergman MP, DA Shadow Minister of International Relations and Cooperation