South Africa's Ramaphosa Re-Elected as ANC Strikes Coalition Deal with Democratic Alliance

In a groundbreaking development, the African National Congress (ANC) and its long-time rival, the Democratic Alliance (DA), have put aside their differences to form a government of national unity in South Africa. This unprecedented agreement marks a significant shift in the country's political landscape, ending 30 years of ANC dominance.

The accord allows President Cyril Ramaphosa  to secure a second term in office, with 283 votes in the National Assembly. The 71-year-old leader hailed the deal as a "new birth" and "new era" for the country, promising an era of hope and inclusivity. DA leader John Steenhuisen echoed the sentiment, calling it a "historic day" that marks the beginning of a new chapter in South African politics.

The ANC's loss of majority in the recent election led to two weeks of intense negotiations with other parties, culminating in the surprise agreement with the DA. The deal is seen as a watershed moment for the country, still grappling with the legacy of apartheid and colonialism. The DA's entry into national government is a significant development, as the party seeks to scrap some of the ANC's Black empowerment programs, which it claims have benefited only a politically-connected elite.

Why it Matters : This power shift has far-reaching implications for South Africa's economy, politics, and social dynamics. The DA's presence in government is expected to bring about policy continuity and accelerate reforms, which could attract investors and boost economic growth. The exclusion of the hard-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the populist uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party from policymaking is also seen as a positive development, as they had advocated for radical policies like nationalizing banks and privately-owned land.

The agreement has not been without controversy, however. Some ANC politicians have expressed hostility towards the DA's involvement, while the EFF has accused the DA of representing the interests of the privileged white minority. The hard-left party has refused to participate in the government, calling it a "marriage of convenience" to consolidate white monopoly power.

Despite these challenges, the deal has been welcomed by many South Africans, who see it as an opportunity for change and progress. As one street vendor in Soweto put it, "The ANC was also failing. They need a partner so they can rise again. DA is mostly white people, so if they came together, we can have more power and maybe a lot can change, even jobs could be created."

Key Takeaway :

• The ANC and DA have formed a government of national unity, marking a significant shift in South African politics.
• The deal allows President Cyril Ramaphosa to secure a second term in office.
• The DA's entry into national government is seen as a watershed moment for the country, with implications for the economy, politics, and social dynamics.
• The agreement has been welcomed by investors, who expect policy continuity and accelerated reforms.
• The exclusion of the EFF and MK from policymaking is seen as a positive development, as they had advocated for radical policies.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TrimFeed (@trimfeednews)