The controversial hirings have unsettled Malawi’s international partners, with funds critical for health, agriculture and infrastructure now at risk of suspension if donors conclude that accountability has been abandoned

The Democratic Alliance had threatened to withhold its vote unless President Cyril Ramaphosa fired the errant higher education minister

The parties said the higher education minister’s dismissal was a vital step towards restoring accountability amid governance failures and allegations of political interference

Secretary general Fikile Mbalula challenged the Democratic Alliance to either support the government of national unity or make its exit official, as tension rises over the budget

ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula defends the decision not to ask the minister to step aside, despite allegations of misconduct linked to VBS Mutual Bank

There were none of the usual tantrums, bravado and insults when the cabinet held its first lekgotla