Mandela reshuffles the cabinet

Following a decision by the finance minister, Chris Liebenberg, to relinquish his cabinet post for private reasons, president Nelson Mandela announced changes to the government of national unity. Liebenberg's resignation took effect on April 4, the end of the 1995 - 1996 financial year. The non-aligned Liebenberg had replaced Derek Keys from the private sector when he joined the government in 1994. He was replaced by Trevor Manuel who was then the minister of Trade and Industry and Tourism. Alec Erwin was promoted to Manuel's post and Gill Marcus became deputy minister of Finance. The reshuffling also saw Jay Naidoo replacing Pallo Jordan who was dropped as minister of Post and Telecommunication.