Farai Dziva|South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has effectively suspended a government Minister for violating lockdown restrictions.

Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has been placee on special leave for two months – one month of which will be unpaid.

According to media reports, Ndabeni-Abrahams violated the lockdown regulations when she visited the home of a friend, contrary to the lockdown regulations.

“Ramaphosa summoned Ndabeni-Abrahams on Tuesday where he expressed his disapproval of her actions and ordered her to deliver a public apology to the nation,” a southern publication reported.

“The nation-wide lockdown calls for absolute compliance on the part of all South Africans.

Members of the National Executive carry a special responsibility in setting an example to South Africans, who are having to make great sacrifices.

None of us – not least a member of the National Executive – should undermine our national effort to save lives in this very serious situation.

I am satisfied that Minister Ndabeni-Abrahams appreciates the seriousness of what she has done and that no-one is above the law,” said Ramaphosa.