President Cyril Ramaphosa has removed Sisisi Tolashe as Minister of Social Development and appointed Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga as Acting Minister pending a permanent replacement.
The Presidency announced the change on the 14th of May 2026. Chikunga, has been serving as Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities, will take over the portfolio with immediate effect while Ramaphosa considers a permanent appointment.
Tolashe’s tenure had come under scrutiny in recent months following allegations of irregular appointments and double-dipping in the department. The Portfolio Committee on Social Development met with her in October 2025 and later sought legal advice on how to hold the department accountable. In May 2026, a forensic report presented to Parliament found Tolashe had been uncooperative and evasive during proceedings, with opposition parties calling for her to step aside.
Ramaphosa’s office said the decision was made to ensure stability and accountability in the department, which oversees SASSA and social grants for millions of South Africans.
Chikunga will serve as Acting Minister until a replacement is named.
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