Audio By Carbonatix
South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has withdrawn controversial perks for cabinet ministers and their deputies that saw their homes supplied with free electricity and water.
The benefits caused a public outcry as they were considered insensitive at a time South Africans are struggling with daily power cuts and rising cost of living.
In a press briefing on Monday evening, a spokesman said the president "acknowledges and appreciates the public sentiments on the matter".
The ministerial handbook, which outlines ministerial benefits, will be "aligned to the realities that many South Africans face", presidential spokesman Vincent Magwenya said.
He said the intention behind the perks was "not a nefarious one".
"The intention was to try and find some form of balance between what ministers could afford versus some of the costs that they have," he is quoted as saying the by the state news agency.
Latest Stories
-
Ghana is rising again – Mahama declares
2 hours -
Firefighters subdue blaze at Accra’s Tudu, officials warn of busy fire season ahead
3 hours -
New Year’s Luv FM Family Party in the park ends in grand style at Rattray park
3 hours -
Mahama targets digital schools, universal healthcare, and food self-sufficiency in 2026
3 hours -
Ghana’s global image boosted by our world-acclaimed reset agenda – Mahama
3 hours -
Full text: Mahama’s New Year message to the nation
3 hours -
The foundation is laid; now we accelerate and expand in 2026 – Mahama
4 hours -
There is no NPP, CPP nor NDC Ghana, only one Ghana – Mahama
4 hours -
Eduwatch praises education financing gains but warns delays, teacher gaps could derail reforms
4 hours -
Kusaal Wikimedians take local language online in 14-day digital campaign
5 hours -
Stop interfering in each other’s roles – Bole-Bamboi MP appeals to traditional rulers for peace
5 hours -
Playback: President Mahama addressed the nation in New Year message
5 hours -
Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union call for strong work ethics, economic participation in 2026 new year message
7 hours -
Crossover Joy: Churches in Ghana welcome 2026 with fire and faith
7 hours -
Traffic chaos on Accra–Kumasi Highway leaves hundreds stranded as diversions gridlock
7 hours