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South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has withdrawn controversial perks for cabinet ministers and their deputies that saw their homes supplied with free electricity and water.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
-
Police blur the line between invitations and arrests – Reindorf Twumasi Ankrah
20 minutes -
Turning invitations into arrests is making citizens reluctant to assist police – Twumasi Ankrah
53 minutes -
The Traffitech-GH SMS spot-fine system: The good, the sad, and the funny – Bright Simons writes
1 hour -
Hawa Koomson pledges experienced and mature leadership of NPP women’s wing
2 hours -
Young woman found dead at Kasoa Peace Town
3 hours -
Playback: The Law examined lawful arrest in Ghana
3 hours -
Mahama urges African governments to treat healthcare as an investment, not budget cost
4 hours -
Bawumia congratulates John Boadu and new NPP executives, pledges support ahead of 2028
4 hours -
Aksa Energy delegation pays courtesy call on GRA Commissioner-General
4 hours -
‘No talent should be left out’ – Bawumia pledges inclusive NPP campaign for 2028
4 hours -
Prof. Mike Oquaye recounts how he blocked the Special Prosecutor’s attempt to arrest Bawku Central MP
4 hours -
Make health sovereignty a priority for Africa – Mahama
4 hours -
Dorimon Naa, Wa West DCE lead massive clean-up exercise; threaten sanctions against recalcitrant residents
5 hours -
Photos from Adom FM Y2K Jam
5 hours -
Praye Tiatia steals the show at Adom FM Y2K Jam [Watch]
5 hours