Cyril Ramaphosa Secures Second Term as South African President Following Coalition Agreement.

Published on 15 June 2024, by Marine Beaumont | Capetown, SA

In a notable political event, South Africa's Parliament has chosen Cyril Ramaphosa as President for a second consecutive five-year term. This decision follows the African National Congress (ANC) achieving only 40% of the vote in the recent general elections. The election session, which concluded late on Friday night, also resulted in Thoko Didiza of the ANC and Annelie Lotriet of the Democratic Alliance (DA) being elected as Speaker and Deputy Speaker, respectively. Ramaphosa received 283 votes, significantly more than the 44 votes for Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). He is set to announce his new cabinet after his inauguration on Wednesday.

The establishment of a government of national unity (GNU) was central to discussions, with the ANC forming coalitions with the DA, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and the Patriotic Front (PF). This coalition has sparked varied reactions from political parties and the public. Some see it as a promising step towards reconciliation and economic recovery, while others criticize the ANC for partnering with the DA, traditionally an opposition party since Nelson Mandela's presidency in 1994.

ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula emphasized the coalition's dedication to continuing South Africa's transformation agenda. He acknowledged the need for cooperation, stating, "We are not in a position to govern this country alone. We must work with others." DA leader John Steenhuisen expressed optimism about the coalition's outcomes, stressing respect for the Constitution and the rule of law as fundamental to their agreement. Similarly, IFP spokesperson Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi confirmed their support for the ANC's proposed candidates, highlighting the importance of leadership in advancing the nation's interests.

The GNU discussions were marked by uncertainty until just before the parliamentary session began. The MK party, founded by former president Jacob Zuma and finishing third in the elections, abstained from participating, protesting alleged electoral irregularities. Meanwhile, EFF deputy president Floyd Shivambu criticized the DA for safeguarding "white minority interests and privileges," highlighting ongoing tensions in South Africa's political scene.

Despite these challenges, provincial premiers have been elected across South Africa, with a significant victory for the IFP over MK in KwaZulu-Natal. The Western Cape remains under DA leadership, while the ANC retains control over Gauteng and six other provinces. The formation of the GNU has boosted investor confidence, as indicated by a rise in Johannesburg Securities Exchange shares, particularly within the financial sector.

This critical moment in South African politics reveals a complex interplay of alliances and oppositions. As Ramaphosa prepares to lead the nation into his second term with a new cabinet and a coalition government, the focus remains on tackling economic challenges and fostering national unity amidst diverse political perspectives.