Johannesburg, South Africa – Cyril Ramaphosa has been reinstated as president of South Africa’s parliament after a groundbreaking coalition was formed between the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and opposition parties. This new government, a coalition of Mr. Ramaphosa’s ANC, the center-right Democratic Alliance (DA), and smaller parties, marks a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
Following a tense political day with the National Assembly sitting late into the evening, votes were cast to solidify the power structure of the new administration. This agreement comes after the ANC lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years during last month’s elections, garnering 40% of the vote, with the DA coming in second with 22%.
In his victory speech, President Ramaphosa commended the new coalition and called for unified action for the betterment of the nation. This coalition deal, described as a “remarkable step” by ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula, ensures that Mr. Ramaphosa, who replaced Jacob Zuma in 2018, retains his position as both president and ANC leader.
The multi-party agreement, which includes the DA, excludes two ANC breakaway parties, highlighting the importance of delivering on economic improvements demanded by voters. While some critics are skeptical of this unprecedented grand coalition, many South Africans remain hopeful for its success.
The ANC, which had consistently polled above 50% since the country’s first democratic elections in 1994, has seen a decline in support due to issues like corruption, unemployment, and crime. The alliance between the ANC and DA, former rivals, signifies a new chapter in South Africa’s political history.
Addressing lawmakers in Cape Town, DA leader John Steenhuisen expressed optimism for the country’s future, calling the coalition a historic moment. The National Assembly also saw ANC and DA members taking key roles in the government, underscoring the cooperation between the two parties.
Despite some dissent from Julius Malema of the Economic Freedom Fighters, who founded the party after leaving the ANC in 2013, the general sentiment among party leaders is one of acceptance and readiness to move forward. The coming days will see Mr. Ramaphosa appointing cabinet positions, ushering in a new era of governance shaped by this groundbreaking coalition.