South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has unveiled a new coalition government following his ruling African National Congress (ANC) party’s loss of parliamentary majority in the May elections.
Describing it as a “government of national unity,” Ramaphosa emphasized its unprecedented nature in the country’s democratic history.
Under the new arrangement, the ANC will control 20 out of 32 cabinet positions.
The pro-market Democratic Alliance (DA), formerly the main opposition, will hold six posts, while six other portfolios will be shared among smaller parties.
The coalition’s formation followed intense negotiations that nearly derailed over accusations by Ramaphosa that the DA sought to establish a “parallel government,” which he argued would violate the constitution.
The ANC’s reduced electoral support reflects widespread public frustration over its performance in delivering essential services, addressing unemployment, poverty, and corruption.
Since Nelson Mandela led the ANC to power in 1994, ending decades of white-minority rule, this shift marks a significant departure in South African political dynamics.