Ramaphosa Places Health Minister Zweli Mkhize on Special Leave

Faizel Patel – 08/06/2021

President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Health Minister Dr. Zweli Mkhize on special leave.

Mkhize has been under pressure from some quarters to step aside, in the wake of the Digital Vibes contract scandal.

At the centre of the scandalis a R150 million irregular tender that his department awarded to Digital Vibes, a company linked to some of his close associates.

The minister’s son was also shown to have benefited from the proceeds.

In a statement, the Presidency says the period will enable Mkhize to attend to allegations and investigations concerning contracts between the Health Department and Digital Vibes.

“The Special Investigating Unit is investigating this matter and the President awaits a report on the outcome of this probe.”

The President says Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane will serve as Acting Health Minister until further notice.

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