On June 25, 2025, Andrew Whitfield was dismissed from his position as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The official reason cited was an unauthorized trip to the United States, which was deemed a violation of executive rules. Whitfield had previously written a letter of apology for the trip but received no response from the Presidency.

The dismissal sparked immediate controversy, particularly from the Democratic Alliance (DA), Whitfield’s party, which condemned the action as unfair and hypocritical. The DA argued that while Whitfield was fired for a relatively minor infraction, several ANC ministers implicated in serious corruption cases remained in their positions. Labeling the dismissal a “political hit job,” the DA demanded that Ramaphosa fire three specific ANC ministers within 48 hours, threatening unspecified consequences if the ultimatum was not met.

In response, President Ramaphosa defended his decision, stating it was made under section 93(1) of the Constitution and citing precedents set by former presidents Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki. He criticized the DA’s reaction as “irresponsible” and based on “outright distortions,” further revealing that he had informed DA leader John Steenhuisen of the dismissal beforehand and expected the DA to provide a replacement.

The situation has heightened tensions within the Government of National Unity (GNU), with the DA threatening to reconsider its participation. However it remains to be seen whether they will act on this threat, having so far avoided using any of their leverage against the ANC.