Ministers’ children - It’s a private affair

20 September 2013
 

Government has yet again received media enquiries on the education institutions that are attended by Ministers and Deputy Ministers’ children, and reiterates that this is a private matter, and not a public matter.
 
Every citizen in South Africa, irrespective of the office one holds, is entitled to receive education at an institution of their choice.
 
Acting GCIS CEO, Phumla Williams, said, “Whether the leaders of this country or even public servants choose to send their children to public or private schools, it is their choice. They are exercising their democratic right of choice.”
 
The South African Constitution also states that a child's best interests is of paramount importance in every matter concerning the child, and in this regard the information requested may also impact on the security, safety and wellbeing of the children of Ministers and Deputy Ministers.  
 
“The Ministers and Deputy Ministers are also citizens of the country, who have families, and their privacy should also be respected. According to the constitution, which is the foundation of our country, every citizen has a right to privacy. So instead of focusing on this, which is not a public matter, Government urges the media and other sectors of communities to concentrate on ensuring that all children in our country are protected and enjoying the benefits of a democratic country,” said Williams.
 
Enquiries: Phumla Williams
Cell: 083 501 0139
 
Issued by: Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)