On Foreign News,
South Africa’s newly elected parliament convened on Friday, and President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to be re-elected, forming an unprecedented coalition government. This coalition involves the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), with the Zulu nationalist Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) also supporting the government of national unity.
DA leader John Steenhuisen announced the coalition agreement, emphasizing a commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law. Chief Justice Raymond Zondo opened the first parliamentary session, swearing in MPs, including members of the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) who wore distinctive red overalls. The EFF, along with other leftist parties, chose not to join the coalition.
The ANC, weakened by corruption and poor economic performance, lost its absolute majority in the recent general election. Ramaphosa, seeking a government of national unity, received backing from the DA and IFP, ensuring a majority in parliament. Former president Jacob Zuma’s new party, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), disputed the election results and boycotted the first parliamentary session.
Ramaphosa is expected to win the secret ballot to confirm his re-election and will then announce his new cabinet. This coalition marks a significant shift in South African politics, which has been dominated by the ANC since the end of apartheid.
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