By: Sipho Jack
President Cyril Ramaphosa today announced former president Jacob Zuma’s spin doctor as his spokesperson.
Vincent Magwenya was on Tuesday appointed as Ramaphosa’s new spokesperson.
In a statement, Ramaphosa described him as a professional communicator with an excellent track record in the communications space.
“Mr Magwenya is a seasoned communicator with extensive experience in government communication, public relations, stakeholder management, and broadcasting.
“He was CEO of PR agency Magna Carta from 2013 to 2016, before establishing Conversations Media and Communications, where he has served as CEO,” the statement read.
Magwenya started his career as a broadcast journalist in various technical and editorial roles.
He also served as director of communications for Standard Bank Africa and director of group stakeholder relations management for Standard Bank Group.
Magwenya takes over from Tyrone Seale who has been Ramaphosa’s acting spokesman after his former corruption accused spokeswoman Khusela Diko.
Diko was placed on a precautionary suspension and later given a simple warning a year ago following allegations of corruption involving Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the Gauteng Health Department.
Ramaphosa further expressed his joy in welcoming Magwenya into Presidency.
“I am pleased to welcome Vincent Magwenya to the Presidency team. His experience, insight, and capabilities will strengthen our efforts to effectively communicate the work of the Presidency as we undertake the work of recovery and rebuilding,” Ramaphosa said.
