Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has asked his chief of staff Roman Cabanac to step down. This was confirmed on Thursday during the DA leader’s appearance at the Cape Town Press Club.
Steenhuisen made the controversial appointment which has been rejected by many South Africans who were unhappy about Cabanac being appointed to the R1.43 million per annum ministerial job.
Steenhuisen has previously defended the appointment, saying Cabanac held the required qualifications as he had an LLB and had experience.
On Thursday, Steenhuisen confirmed human resource processes were underway and that he had asked Cabanac to step down.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Cabanac wrote an open letter pleading to keep his job.
He emphasised his acceptance of the role as a commitment to the nation’s growth, food security, and economic stability, expressing a willingness to collaborate with anyone who shares these goals.
Cabanac, who is well known for voicing strong and divisive political beliefs, has encountered a lot of criticism for being outspoken.
His controversial words on the internet include his strong condemnation of the ANC, his support of Helen Zille's remarks about colonialism, his opposition to COVID-19 lockdowns, and his racial remarks.
His views have sparked discussions in the public sphere and prompted charges of racism and insensitivity, particularly from the EFF, which has criticised his appointment.
In response to the criticism, Cabanac has acknowledged his past mistakes.
“I acknowledge that some of my past online statements were simplistic and controversial, leading to strong reactions. I understand and respect the concerns which have been raised, especially considering my new non-partisan role. I remain committed to building a better South Africa for us all,” he said.
He further explained, “In the past, I built my brand as a critic of the previous government. I pushed boundaries to gain attention on social media and sometimes made divisive, idle and poorly considered statements in the heat of online journalism.”
Reflecting on his personal and political growth, Cabanac admitted a significant change in his perspective and the country’s political landscape.
He acknowledged that his previous approach had been unproductive, likening online discourse to "judging books by their covers."
Recognizing the need for a more constructive role, he now views his position as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to South African government affairs, rather than merely critique them.
Cabanac is urging South Africans to give him a chance in serving this job.
“I ask those South Africans who are against me to reconsider their judgement of me, or at least afford me the chance to do the job and to evaluate me after it is done, just as they have with others who have faced public scrutiny or even criminal convictions but are working towards the greater good for the sake of the Government of National Unity,” he said.
He aims to make a commitment to work together with anyone who has the same vision of a successful, unified South Africa. He thinks that by working together, they can guarantee food security, generate income, and establish a strong economy.
IOL