Bold Move or Blind Faith

The GNU cabinet that’s keeping us up at night. But should it?

In an episode of US mockumentary sitcom “Abbott Elementary,” Lisa Ann Walter’s character, Melissa Schemmenti, introduces herself to a new second-grade substitute teacher. The scene goes like this:

Melissa: Hey there, I’m Melissa Schemmenti, the other second grade teacher. Just wanted to pop over to say hi and let you know I’m right across the hall if you need anything.

Sub: Thanks. I doubt I’ll have any issues. I used to be a kid, so I think I can handle a dozen Me’s.

The scene is meant to be cute, but we (the audience) know it foreshadows disaster. It’s the classic tale of a newcomer stepping into a role that demands less guess, more finesse—much like the 7th administration executive cabinet, announced on 30 June.

The 32 ministers and their 43 deputies, some without the experience their jobs demand, are facing a tough reality. We are all meant to believe that enthusiasm alone can navigate the complex world of governance—a risky move that leaves the nation on edge.

But perhaps we’ve been skirting the known path for so long that we’ve forgotten what it takes to innovate and try new things. Perhaps this GNU cabinet, with its younger, diversified profile, will be the change we all need.

Consider the choice of the Patriotic Alliance's (PA) Gayton McKenzie – former convict turned cabinet minister – as the new head of the Sports, Arts and Culture portfolio. Or political wunderkind, the Democratic Alliance's (DA) Siviwe Gwarube, as the new Minister of Basic Education. Both must balance bold policy initiatives with the support systems necessary for success, along with inherent party agendas.

Given McKenzie's hardline stance on anti-corruption and integrity, he plans to bring about stricter controls and oversight to the sports, arts and culture sector. We're unlikely to see R22 million flagpoles erected during his tenure. He also plans to advocate for initiatives that provide resources and opportunities to young athletes and artists from marginalised communities. However, some of the PA's policies may present challenges in promoting a unified cultural landscape. It will be important for McKenzie to navigate these issues carefully to ensure inclusivity and respect for all cultural groups.

Similarly, there is hope that with Gwarube at the helm of Basic Education, key policies to elevate education standards will be implemented. Her focus on accountability and transparency should ensure resources are managed efficiently. To succeed, Gwarube needs to ensure her policies do not place additional burdens on teachers and students. Balancing accountability with support and ensuring equitable resource distribution will be crucial for her success.

The appointment of figures like McKenzie, Gwarube, and others reflects the need for innovative approaches in governance and signals the multi-coloured winds of change. Just as a newcomer must adapt and innovate in a challenging and unfamiliar role, so too must our leaders navigate a system that can sometimes be rigid and resistant to change.

This 7th administration cabinet represents a new opportunity for South Africans to see if fresh faces can bring the necessary reforms and dynamism to our governance system. It's a chance for South Africa to embrace innovation and resilience, and to see if passion, when paired with the right support, can drive us toward a better, more inclusive future. As we watch this new cabinet unfold its agenda, we are reminded that change, however painful and daunting, is essential for progress.