Minister Caught in Controversy Over Chewing Gum Incident

Pretoria – President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged Higher Education and Training Minister Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane to provide clarification on her behavior during a recent Portfolio Committee meeting in Parliament.

Dr. Nkabane’s interaction with the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, which involved her chewing gum and appeared somewhat dismissive, quickly became a viral topic on social media.

In a statement issued on Thursday, 5 June 2025, the Presidency noted: “President Ramaphosa is aware of the feedback and media reactions concerning the Honourable Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane’s appearance before the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training on the 30th of May 2025.”

The statement further explained: “Acknowledging that the available footage might not fully convey the depth or context of the discussion, the President has requested an in-depth report from the minister regarding the decorum and substance of her interactions with Parliament.”

“In this regard, the President is seeking information about the process of appointing board members to the Sector Education and Training Authorities, which were pivotal to the Portfolio Committee’s inquiries.”

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The Presidency highlighted that this request stems from the President’s expectation that Ministers, deputy ministers, and senior public sector executives uphold professionalism, transparency, and respect in their engagements with Parliament and other accountability structures.

“Given the public broadcasting of parliamentary sessions and the widespread sharing of content from these proceedings, it is essential for all ministers and senior officials to be vigilant about their conduct during such events,” the statement added.

“This also emphasizes the significance of viewing portfolio committees as important forums for informing the public about the government’s progress across different sectors.”

“The President looks forward to the minister establishing a constructive relationship with the portfolio committee as she fulfills her leadership and accountability duties.”

In response, Dr. Nkabane took to X, expressing: “I acknowledge the concerns raised by various stakeholders.

“Reflecting on the situation and considering the feedback, I understand that it could have been managed differently.

“I value the critical role of Parliament in oversight.”