Charles Nqakula

Charles Nqakula (born 13 September 1942) is a South African politician who served as Minister of Defence from September 2008 to 2009. He also served as Minister for Safety and Security from May 2002 to September 2008. Nqakula is married to the current Speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula MP. On 24 June 2012,Former South African President Jacob Zuma appointed Nqakula as High Commissioner to the Republic of Mozambique, a position he still retains today. Early life Charles Nqakula attended primary school in Cradock and secondary school in Lovedale, matriculating in 1963. He worked as a hotel waiter and wine steward, after which he became a clerk in the Department of Bantu Education.