The African National Congress (ANC) is working to secure a second term for President Cyril Ramaphosa in South Africa’s upcoming elections. Despite losing its majority for the first time in the latest election, the ANC has been engaged in coalition talks with other parties. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has announced that they will support Ramaphosa in a coalition government, ensuring that he will be re-elected as president. This marks a pivotal moment in South African politics, as the ANC has been in power for over three decades.
The ANC was under pressure to form a coalition agreement within 14 days of the election results being declared, as parliament must convene and vote for the president. Friday’s sitting of parliament is expected to be lengthy, with the election of a speaker and deputy speaker before the presidential vote. Despite the MK Party boycotting the session, the ANC still has a majority and the voting procedure is unlikely to be affected. The deadline for the coalition agreement is Sunday, leaving little time for negotiations.
Since the end of apartheid in 1994, the ANC has had a stronghold on South African politics, with its candidates consistently elected as president. The upcoming election is significant as it marks a potential shift in the political landscape, with the ANC relying on former foes to secure a second term for Ramaphosa. The coalition government includes the ANC, DA, Inkatha Freedom Party, and Patriotic Alliance, signaling a new era of unity and cooperation in South African politics.
The election process will take place in an unconventional setting due to a fire in 2022 that destroyed the National Assembly building in Cape Town. However, this will not disrupt the voting process, as the constitution only requires one-third of lawmakers to be present for a quorum. Despite facing political uncertainty, the ANC is on track to ensure Ramaphosa’s re-election, thereby maintaining its three-decade hold on power. This reflects a significant moment in South African history as the country navigates a new chapter in its political landscape.
