South Africa’s President Ramaphosa Outmaneuvers DA in Coalition Government Formation
In a deft display of political maneuvering, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has successfully navigated the treacherous waters of coalition politics to form a new government following the inconclusive May 29 elections. Despite the Democratic Alliance (DA) demanding greater representation, Ramaphosa’s African National Congress (ANC) has retained a dominant position in the cabinet, while also including officials from smaller parties to dilute DA’s influence.
Formation of a Diverse Cabinet
On Sunday, President Ramaphosa unveiled a new 32-member cabinet, securing 20 posts for his ANC, which translates to more than 60% of cabinet positions. The DA, the ANC’s main coalition partner, secured only six seats—less than the 30% it initially demanded. To placate the DA, Ramaphosa also appointed six DA officials as deputy ministers, including a key position in finance. This move saw the respected Enoch Godongwana maintain his role as finance minister, a figure respected across business and union sectors.
An Ideologically Diverse Government
Ramaphosa’s strategy extended beyond the DA. By allocating six cabinet positions to smaller parties, such as the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) and the Afrikaner nationalist Freedom Front Plus, he has created the most ideologically diverse government in South Africa’s history. In line with post-apartheid tradition, the new cabinet also represents all racial groups in the country, including ministerial posts for white, colored, and Indian communities.
Domestic and International Policies
Resistance to the coalition, especially Ramaphosa’s alliance with the DA, remains palpable. The DA, often accused of preserving apartheid-era economic privileges, faces skepticism from various quarters. Despite this, DA leader John Steenhuisen expressed that the party "drove a hard bargain" and was ready to take on the challenge of national governance for the first time.
To bolster his standing, Ramaphosa aligned with the PAC for the new land reform ministry. PAC leader Mzwanele Nyhontso secured the portfolio, which now stands separate from agriculture, signaling a firm stance against land nationalization demands from more radical parties like Jacob Zuma’s MK and Julius Malema’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
International Relations
Ronald Lamola, a key figure in South Africa’s litigation against Israel for genocide, takes over as the new foreign minister, indicating a continuation of South Africa’s pro-Palestinian stance. This builds on efforts by former justice minister Naledi Pandor, who strengthened ties with the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, and China, often viewed as counterweights to Western influence.
Challenges Ahead
Ramaphosa’s political acumen is further evidenced by his careful handling of key economic portfolios. The ANC retained control over significant economic ministries, resisting pressures to cede the trade and industry ministry to the DA. This move ensures the ANC can continue its black economic empowerment policies, which the DA argues stifle investment and fuel corruption.
The public works ministry, now under DA’s Dean Macpherson, faces the challenge of revitalizing infrastructure and combating corruption, an area historically tainted by scandal. Similarly, other key ministries assigned to the DA include basic education, public works, and home affairs.
A Fragile Political Landscape
As South Africa grapples with complex coalition dynamics, the ANC-DA partnership sets the stage for potentially tense confrontations with the official opposition, MK, led by former President Jacob Zuma. The IFP, holding cooperative governance and traditional affairs, aligns closely with the Zulu monarchy, striking a precarious balance in volatile KwaZulu-Natal, where political violence remains a critical issue.
President Ramaphosa’s political balancing act is crucial as South Africa navigates domestic challenges and maintains its international relations. The newly formed government may find common ground on economic policies, but issues such as land reform and racial inequality remain contentious.
For more information on South Africa’s evolving political landscape, visit BBC News.
Photo Credits: Getty Images/BBC
