Ramaphosa bemoans shortcomings of UN Security Council on Africa

CAPE TOWN - President Cyril Ramaphosa says the shortcomings of the United Nations (UN) Security Council have been disastrous to Africa.

He said this is why the reform of the UN Security Council is vital to global efforts to foster peace and end conflicts like in the Middle East.

Ramaphosa was responding to questions from members of Parliament (MPs) in the National Assembly and briefing parliamentarians on the pace of the government's UN Security Council reforms.

READ: Ramaphosa says SA to prioritise Africa's needs when it takes over G20 presidency

"The shortcomings of the UN Security Council have had a disastrous impact on the African continent and global south," said Ramaphosa.

He said as long as the veto power exists, it should be extended to other permanent members and also called for the abolishment of veto rights held by five members.

"For as long as the veto exists, it is a privilege and a prerogative that should be extended to all new permanent members as well," he added.

RAMAPHOSA ON JUSTICE MINISTER SIMELANE

Ramaphosa again assured MPs that he’s still considering the action he will take against Justice Minister Thembi Simelane.

MPs grilled Ramaphosa regarding Simelane's loan from the now defunct VBS Mutual Bank fixer, Gundo Wealth Solutions, which has since been banned from doing business.

As expected, Ramaphosa faced more questions over Simelane’s future as a Justice Minister.

ActionSA MP Dr Kgosi Letlape asked Ramaphosa why Simelane doesn’t step aside to clear the cloud over her.

“What will it take for the president to allow the minister of justice a leave of absence to clear the cloud that surrounds her and give the president as much time to consider the matter?”

But Ramaphosa again pleaded for more time, weeks after Simelane made submissions to him.

The president further said all Cabinet members are expected to meet the standards established by the ethics code and to uphold their oath of office.