Statement on the Appointment of Deputy Ministers by President Thabo Mbeki

President Thabo Mbeki wishes to announce that he has appointed two Deputy Ministers to the portfolios of Health and Social Development. The Deputy Ministers, both of whom are members of the New National Party are:

* David Malatsi - Deputy Minister of Social Development
* Renier Schoeman - Deputy Minister of Health.

Through these appointments, the President wishes further to strengthen the focus of the Executive on these two critical tasks of poverty eradication and provision of health services to the people of our country.

The appointments also reflect the broadening of co-operation among various political formations, at national government level. Such co-operation is premised on meeting the challenge of improving the quality of life of all South Africans as well as ensuring the involvement of the widest spectrum of political parties in the practical tasks of reconstruction and development.

The appointments have been made in consultation with the leader of the New National Party and after consultation with leaders of both the IFP and Azapo, which are partners with the ruling party in national government.

The two Deputy Ministers will be sworn in today at 12H00 at Union Building in a ceremony attended by Acting President Jacob Zuma.

President Mbeki is confident that these leaders who have offered their services at national government level to the practical task of rebuilding our society, will acquit themselves well in their new responsibilities. He wishes them all the best in this endeavour.

Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS)
4 November 2002

For more information contact:
Joel Netshitenzhe
082-900-0083