South African President Replaces Higher Education Minister Amid Misconduct Allegations

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed Higher Education and Training Minister Nobuhle Nkabane following allegations from the Democratic Alliance (DA) that she lied to parliament and manipulated appointments of ANC-linked individuals to skills development boards. The DA's accusations and criminal charges against Nkabane heightened tensions within the coalition government, prompting Ramaphosa to act amid broader corruption concerns involving other ministers. Nkabane denied the allegations but was removed after failing to attend parliamentary meetings to address the controversy. Buti Manamela, formerly the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, was sworn in as the new minister, with Nomusa Dube-Ncube appointed as deputy minister. This reshuffle aims to ease coalition frictions ahead of critical budget votes. Ramaphosa's actions come amid increasing scrutiny over corruption within his administration and coalition partners.