Politics is like swallowing a rock, says SA finance minister

South Africa's Finance Minister Tito Mboweni has let off some steam about his political frustrations.

In a series of tweets, he complained about cabinet responsibility - the requirement that ministers back the collective decision of the government even if they do not agree with it.

He was "free but not free," he wrote, adding that "sometimes it feels like swallowing a rock".

I have often asked myself the question: What is the art of politics? The Path to Power and how to stay in Power! And lead your People correctly. Corruption free. Why do people want to be in Power, actually? Why? It’s a poorly paying, thankless and abusive job!!

— Tito Mboweni (@tito_mboweni) May 5, 2020

Not so long ago, I was a free man, no political constraints. Then I agreed, voluntarily to join Government. Tjoooo! Free but not free!! You have to obey the majority/collective decisions! Sometimes it feels like swallowing a rock!????

— Tito Mboweni (@tito_mboweni) May 5, 2020

Mr Mboweni, known for his colourful tweets on a range of subjects, did not clarify what policy he was complaining about.