Cyril Ramaphosa Re-elected South African President
South Africa’s parliament has reaffirmed Cyril Ramaphosa as president after a groundbreaking coalition deal between the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and opposition parties.
The new government of national unity merges Ramaphosa’s ANC with the center-right Democratic Alliance (DA) and smaller parties.
Ramaphosa praised the coalition in his victory speech, emphasizing the electorate’s expectation for leaders to collaborate “for the good of everyone in our country.”
The agreement was forged amidst intense political drama, with the National Assembly sitting late into the night to confirm the new administration’s power structure.
Following weeks of speculation after the ANC lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years, a deal was struck.
In last month’s elections, the ANC garnered 40% of the vote, with the DA securing second place at 22%.
Fikile Mbalula, ANC secretary-general, described the coalition as a “remarkable step,” ensuring Ramaphosa’s continuation in power after he assumed leadership from Jacob Zuma in 2018.
The next crucial step involves Ramaphosa appointing cabinet members, including from the DA. Notably, the coalition excludes two breakaway ANC factions, which may benefit if the coalition fails to deliver expected economic improvements.
Despite initial skepticism, polls indicate widespread South African support for this unprecedented grand coalition.
Since Nelson Mandela’s presidency began with the ANC’s victory in the country’s first democratic elections in 1994, the party’s support had consistently been above 50%, until recent declines due to corruption, unemployment, and crime.
READ ALSO: Bola Ahmed Tinubu Has Made Nigeria, Africa Laughing Stock—Aisha Yesufu
Reflecting on his party’s history and the challenges ahead, Ramaphosa invoked Mandela’s legacy of unity and reconciliation in his address to parliament following his confirmation.
The alliance between the ANC and DA marks a historic shift, given their long-standing rivalry.
The DA, criticized by some for allegedly safeguarding economic advantages accrued by the white minority during apartheid, denies these claims.
In Cape Town, John Steenhuisen, DA leader, hailed the coalition as the dawn of a new era for South Africa during his remarks late Friday.
The National Assembly also elected an ANC speaker and a DA deputy speaker.
Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, voiced acceptance of the election results while criticizing the coalition for what he perceives as consolidating economic power among South Africa’s white elite.
(BBC)
