President Cyril Ramaphosa emerged victorious in a late Friday vote against Julius Malema, leader of the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters, securing 283 votes to Malema’s 44. The 71-year-old Ramaphosa, in his second term, secured the support of lawmakers from the country’s second-biggest party, the Democratic Alliance, and some smaller parties.
In his victory speech, President Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of the new coalition and highlighted the need for leaders to work together for the betterment of the country. This victory came after weeks of speculation about which party the African National Congress (ANC) would align with following a loss of parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years.
The ANC’s diminished vote share was also influenced by the emergence of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, which garnered unexpected support in the election, securing 14.6% of the vote. The ANC Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula, hailed the coalition deal as a significant step towards unity.
President Ramaphosa, who took over from Jacob Zuma following a tumultuous power struggle in 2018, is now tasked with allocating cabinet positions, which will include members of the Democratic Alliance. The agreement between the ANC and DA includes a commitment to a “merit-based, nonpartisan, and professional civil service,” aiming to address concerns about corruption stemming from cadre deployment in public sector positions.
As South Africa moves forward under this new political landscape, the collaborative efforts of different parties are expected to pave the way for a more inclusive and effective government.
