South Africa’s parliament has re-elected Cyril Ramaphosa as the country’s president in a historic coalition deal between the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and opposition parties. The new government of national unity includes the ANC, the Democratic Alliance (DA), and smaller parties.
The agreement, reached after weeks of speculation, came after the ANC lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years in last month’s elections. With the DA coming in second with 22% of the vote, the coalition deal was seen as a “remarkable step” by ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula.
The multi-party coalition, which does not involve two ANC breakaway parties, aims to address issues such as corruption, unemployment, and crime that have led to a decline in support for the ANC. Many South Africans are hopeful that this unprecedented alliance will bring about positive change.
In his victory speech, President Ramaphosa emphasized the need for unity and collaboration among leaders for the benefit of all citizens. The next step is for him to allocate cabinet positions, which will include members of the DA.
The alliance between the ANC and the DA, former rivals, marks a significant shift in South African politics. Critics of the DA have accused the party of protecting the economic privileges of the white minority, but the party denies these claims.
As the new government takes shape, South Africans are looking towards a new chapter in their country’s history. The coalition deal has been met with both optimism and skepticism, with opposition leader Julius Malema expressing concerns about consolidating white economic power.
The coming months will be crucial as the coalition works to address the challenges facing South Africa and deliver on the expectations of its citizens.
