Government insiders said the group came to the country to warn Zuma’s administration to implement the R1-trillion new nuclear build project.

Following the meeting, Zuma announced the removal of Nkhensani Kubayi from the energy portfolio to the communications ministry. She was replaced by former state security minister David Mahlobo, who was trained in Russia before taking up the intelligence post in 2014.

Other changes included the dismissal of SACP boss Blade Nzimande from higher education. Nzimande was replaced by former home affairs minister Hlengiwe Mkhize. Ayanda Dloldo replaced Mkhize at home affairs.

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