President Cyril Ramaphosa clinched victory once again as South Africa’s president, securing the support of 283 MPs in the election, surpassing EFF leader Julius Malema who received 44 votes.
He received a standing ovation from ANC and DA MPs after being announced as the duly elected president by chief justice Raymond Zondo.
Ramaphosa, the first ANC president to rely on support from other parties due to the ANC’s reduced seats in the recent general elections, accepted the nomination with grace.
The so-called progressive caucus, including parties outside the government of national unity, fielded Malema as a contender for the position, marking a more competitive election compared to his unopposed victory in 2019.
Despite the challenge, Ramaphosa’s nomination was backed by ANC’s new chief whip and seconded by IFP leader, while the nomination for Malema came from ATM president Vuyolwethu Zungula.
With loud applause from ANC, DA, and IFP MPs, Ramaphosa reaffirmed his leadership role with a renewed pledge to serve the nation.
TimesLIVE