WHAT RELIGIOUS LEADERS SAY:

ASHWIN Trikamjee, president of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha says: “We are pleased with Gordhan not only returning to cabinet but to be given such an important post as the minister of public enterprises only vindicates our stance that he is a person of value in this country. And with Nhlanhla Nene as minister of finance, we are excited to see what these two powerhouses will bring to the fore. The worst is definitely behind us and congratulations to Gordhan for being back where he belongs.”

AV Mohamed, head of the Juma Musjid Trust, thinks it was a balanced reshuffle.

“Of course we have been hit with internal politics but Ramaphosa has made moves to satisfy the citizens of the country. He has proven that he can take a hold of things and make key decisions. He has put people like Nene and Gordhan in important positions. Two very able men of able minds who the country can be assured of is in safe hands.

“Best wishes to the president and to his cabinet. It is now the duty of the country to give them a chance to prove their worth; nothing happens overnight. We must be patient. Great things take time.”

Rubin Phillip, retired bishop of the Anglican Church, says he was pleased with a new cabinet made of “mostly” of people of integrity.

“I am certain it will help create a better South Africa for all its people. I would, however, have liked Ramaphosa to have brought in some younger people. It is one way of looking to the future and we need to look forward.

“I would also like to mention that the president could have appointed a woman as deputy president. He should have taken the risk. But with that said, I extend my warmest congratulations to the country’s leaders and will be praying for their success. Because their success, ultimately, is the country’s success.”