Ramaphosa Forms Coalition Government After ANC Loses Majority

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will announce a new coalition government on Sunday night, following the African National Congress (ANC) losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since coming to power three decades ago.

The new executive will be revealed in a televised address at 9 p.m. local time, the presidency confirmed in a statement on X.

The coalition cabinet has been formed after extensive negotiations between the ANC and the centrist Democratic Alliance (DA), which emerged as the two largest parties in the May 29 elections.

This unprecedented collaboration marks a significant shift in South African politics, with the ANC now working alongside the DA and eight other parties to form a government that promises to drive economic reform and revive growth.

“The cabinet will comprise a diversity of political parties,” the presidency stated, reflecting the broad spectrum of the coalition.

Investors are hopeful that this coalition will bring stability and the necessary momentum to tackle the economic challenges that South Africa faces.

The rand experienced significant fluctuations last week as speculation over the coalition talks intensified. The currency saw a 1.5% rise on Friday following news that the ANC and DA were nearing an agreement.

President Ramaphosa reportedly offered the DA six ministerial positions, including agriculture, home affairs, basic education, public works, communications, and forestry.

Also, the DA is expected to take deputy ministerial roles in finance, energy and electricity, small business, higher education, trade and industry, and water.

This coalition government marks a new era for South Africa, moving away from the single-party dominance that has characterized its post-apartheid history. The ANC’s loss of its parliamentary majority is a wake-up call, signaling the electorate’s demand for change and accountability.

The conclusion of the coalition talks and the formation of the new cabinet will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers.

The success of this coalition could set a precedent for future political collaborations in South Africa and potentially reshape the country’s political landscape.

Helen Zille, chairperson of the DA’s Federal Council, and ANC acting spokesman Zuko Godlimpi, both declined to comment on the specifics of the coalition agreement.

However, the anticipation for the official announcement is palpable, with many South Africans hoping that this new government will bring effective governance and a renewed focus on economic recovery.