South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, re-elected for a second term after the ANC lost its outright majority, on Sunday night announced his new Cabinet.
The Cabinet consists of members of the white-dominated Democratic Alliance (DA) party and various other political parties who have signed on to be part of the Government of National Unity (GNU).
The other parties in the GNU are Patriotic Alliance, GOOD, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi, PAC, UDM, IFP, the FF Plus, NFP and the UAT.
Political commentators criticise the new executive as bloated, citing its over 60 ministers and deputy ministers, and noting that several ministerial portfolios include two deputy ministers.
After days of negotiations over ministerial portfolios with the ANC, the DA reportedly accepted Ramaphosa’s final offer on Saturday, June 29.
This decision came after the EFF, led by Julius Malema, approached the ANC to join the Government of National Unity, under the condition that it exclude the DA and Freedom Front Plus.
Ramaphosa appointed ANC deputy president Paul Mashatile as South Africa’s Deputy President and allocated the Ministry of Agriculture to John Steenhuisen, the leader of the DA.
The DA was also given several ministerial portfolios which include:
<ul>
<li>Minister Basic Education: Siviwe Gwarube</li>
<li>Minister of Communications: Solly Malatsi</li>
<li>Minister of Public Works: Dean MacPherson</li>
<li>Minister Home Affairs: Leon Schreiber</li>
<li>Minister of Environmental Affairs: Dion George</li>
</ul>
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GRWQP3mXsAAngDf?format=jpg&amp;name=large"/>
Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) president Velenkosini Hlabisa was appointed as the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, while Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader Gayton McKenzie is the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture.
<h3>The full list of Cabinet Ministers is as follows:</h3>
<ul>
<li>The Deputy President is Paul Mashatile.</li>
<li>The Minister of Agriculture is John Steenhuisen.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Agriculture is Rosemary Nokuzola Capa.</li>
<li>The Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development is Mzwanele Nyhontso.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development is Chupu Stanley Mathabatha.</li>
<li>The Minister of Basic Education is Siviwe Gwarube.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Basic Education is Reginah Mhaule.</li>
<li>The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies is Solly Malatsi.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies is Mondli Gungubele.</li>
<li>The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is Velinkosi Hlabisa.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs are Dickson Masemola and Zolile Burns‐Ncamashe.</li>
<li>The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans is Angie Motshekga.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of Defence and Military Veterans are Bantu Holomisa and Richard Mkhungo.</li>
<li>The Minister of Electricity and Energy is Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy is Samantha Graham.</li>
<li>The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation is Blade Nzimande.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation is Nomalungelo Gina.</li>
<li>The Minister of Employment and Labour is Nomakhosazana Meth.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of Employment and Labour are Jomo Sibiya and Phumzile Mgcina.</li>
<li>The Minister of Finance is Enoch Godongwana.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of Finance are David Masondo and Ashor Sarupen.</li>
<li>The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is Dion George.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment are Narend Singh and Bernice Swarts.</li>
<li>The Minister of Health is Aaron Motsoaledi.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Health is Joe Phaahla.</li>
<li>The Minister of Higher Education is Nobuhle Nkabane.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of Higher Education are Buti Manamela and Mimmy Gondwe.</li>
<li>The Minister of Home Affairs is Leon Schreiber.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs is Njabulo Nzuza.</li>
<li>The Minister of Human Settlements is Mmamoloko Kubayi.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Human Settlements is Tandi Mahambehlala.</li>
<li>The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation is Ronald Lamola.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation are Alvin Botes and Tandi Moraka.</li>
<li>The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development is Thembi Nkadimeng.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development is Andries Nel.</li>
<li>The Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources is Gwede Mantashe.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources is Judith Nemadzinga‐Tshabalala.</li>
<li>The Minister of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation is Maropene Ramokgopa.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation is Seiso Mohai.</li>
<li>The Minister of Police is Senzo Mchunu.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of Police are Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale.</li>
<li>The Minister in the Presidency is Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers in the Presidency are Nonceba Mhlauli and Kenneth Morolong.</li>
<li>The Minister of Public Service and Administration is Mzamo Buthelezi.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration is Pinky Kekana.</li>
<li>The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure is Dean Macpherson.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure is Sihle Zikalala.</li>
<li>The Minister of Small Business Development is Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Small Business Development is Jane Sithole.</li>
<li>The Minister of Social Development is Sisisi Tolashe.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Social Development is Ganief Hendricks.</li>
<li>The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture is Gayton McKenzie.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture is Peace Mabe.</li>
<li>The Minister of Tourism is Patricia De Lille.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Tourism is Maggie Sotyu.</li>
<li>The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition is Parks Tau.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of Trade, Industry and Competition are Zuko Godlimpi and Andrew Whitfield.</li>
<li>The Minister of Transport is Barbara Creecy.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Transport is Mkhuleko Hlengwa.</li>
<li>The Minister of Water and Sanitation is Pemmy Majodina.</li>
<li>The Deputy Ministers of Water and Sanitation are David Mahlobo and Isaac Seitlholo.</li>
<li>The Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is Sindisiwe Chikunga.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is Mmapaseka Steve Letsike.</li>
<li>The Minister of Correctional Services is Pieter Groenewald.</li>
<li>The Deputy Minister of Correctional Services is Lindiwe Ntshalintshali. </li>
</ul>
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Ramaphosa Announces "Bloated" GNU Cabinet, Steenhuisen Is Minister Of Agriculture

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has said the formation of the second Government of National Unity (GNU) is a significant development in South Africa’s democracy. 
The country’s first GNU was established in 1994 to promote nation-building and inclusivity from a racially divided past during a period of political transition following the end of apartheid.
In a statement on Monday, 24 June, Ramaphosa said the GNU should drive a programme that improves the lives of all South Africa’s people rather than focus on who gets which ministerial position among the parties. He said:
<blockquote>
South Africans made clear with their votes in last month’s elections that they want their elected representatives to put aside narrow interests and work together to build the country.
To do so, the GNU cannot be preoccupied with jockeying for positions, tussles over appointments or squabbles within and between parties.
The success of the GNU will be measured by the extent to which we are prepared to focus not on who will govern, but on how we will govern, together.
</blockquote>
The parties that have signed to join the ANC-led GNU are the Democratic Alliance (DA), the Patriotic Alliance (PA), 
Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), GOOD, Pan Africanist, Congress of Azania (PAC), Vryheidsfront Plus (FF+), 
United Democratic Movement (UDM), Rise Mzansi, and Al Jama-ah.
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GNU Must Put South Africans' Interests First - Ramaphosa

South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa began his second term on Wednesday, 19 June, after he took the oath of office at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
Ramaphosa’s African National Congress (ANC) share of the vote fell to 40% in the 29 May 2024 general election, from 57% in 2019, the party’s worst election result since apartheid ended in South Africa in 1994.
Despite the humiliation, Ramaphosa made it clear that he accepted and respected the results as he officially began his second term at the helm of a government of national unity (GNU) incorporating the white-dominated party, the Democratic Alliance (DA) and other smaller parties. Said Ramaphosa (<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/i-stand-before-you-as-a-humble-servant-and-we-have-heard-you-president-cyril-ramaphosa-sworn-in-3eeae6da-4901-4e42-bcbe-934bdf6dc0a8">via IOL</a>):
<blockquote>
The voters of South Africa did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone. They have directed us to work together to address their plight and realise their aspirations.
They have expressed their appreciation for the progress in many areas of their lives over the past 30 years of democracy.
They have also been unequivocal in expressing their disappointment and disapproval of our performance in some of the areas in which we have failed them.
Above all, the people of South Africa have stressed that they are impatient with political bickering and the endless blame game among politicians and political parties.
They want us to put their needs and aspirations first and they want us to work together for the sake of our country.
</blockquote>
Ramaphosa noted that despite the progress and milestones achieved, South African society remains deeply unequal and highly polarised. He said:
<blockquote>
There are toxic cleavages and an incipient social fragmentation that can easily turn into instability. The lines drawn by our history, between black and white, between man and woman, between suburbs and townships, between urban and rural, between the wealthy and the poor, remain etched in our landscape.
In some places, these lines may have faded, but they have not disappeared. We are citizens of one country and yet we occupy different worlds, separated by high walls and great distances.
</blockquote>
Ramaphosa said anarchists and those seeking the collapse of the State will not succeed in their machinations. He said:
<blockquote>
We must reject every attempt to divide or distract us, to sow doubt or cynicism, or to turn us against one another.
Those who seek to stand in our way, those who seek to inflame tensions, will not succeed, because South Africans are resolute.
Those who seek to undermine our institutions will fail because democracy lives in the hearts of our people and will never be dislodged.
</blockquote>
Several heads of State from different parts of the world including Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa were at the Union Buildings to witness Ramaphosa’s inauguration.
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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa Sworn In

South Africa and ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa’s leadership is now on shaky ground after he reportedly lost his grip on the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/just-in-president-cyril-ramaphosa-has-lost-his-grip-on-anc-nec-amid-gnu-talks-with-da-bc907e0a-263f-42c1-9dcd-53d60da0fe16">IOL</a> reported “highly placed sources within the NEC” as saying there has been a significant shift in the balance of power away from Ramaphosa following a move to push through an ANC-DA coalition government.
The ANC’s NEC met last week to discuss its various options for forming a new government.
The ANC-DA coalition was defeated, with the NEC favouring a more measured Government of National Unity (GNU).
However, some ANC officials are reportedly frustrating parties like the EFF and MKP out of any discussions.
The ANC failed to win an outright majority in the 29 May National and Provincial elections and received 40.18% support.
Speaking to IOL, political analyst Professor Sipho Seepe said Ramaphosa failed to deliver and should resign. He said:
<blockquote>
Any leader who has any integrity will not be forced to step down from the position. The election outcomes were disastrous… Ramaphosa is obsessed with the idea of being a president.
</blockquote>
Seepe said if an ANC-DA coalition was pushed through, it could spell the end of Ramaphosa in the ANC.
He argued that it was a wrong move for the president to even consider talks with the DA after it had opposed many of its policies over the years including the recent signing of the National Health Insurance (NHI) bill. He said:
<blockquote>
Don’t be surprised when people take you as the enemy. The DA has opposed many policies of the ANC, so why go with a party that has always pushed you around?
This is the same party that suggested it would take further steps on the Phala Phala matter.
</blockquote>
The growing influence of ANC Chairperson Gwede Mantashe, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, and Nomvula Mokonyane over the NEC is being viewed as a sign of the shifting power dynamic within the party. Said a source:
<blockquote>
Ramaphosa has lost the NEC and this is going to prove detrimental to him in the next few weeks or months. The push for a DA coalition by those loyal to the president was widely rejected by the NEC.
</blockquote>
Reports at the weekend suggested that the ANC NEC was concerned that those close to Ramaphosa were trying to engineer “side deals” with the DA.
The meeting, apparently widely rejected a coalition with the DA and was said to be in favour of an ANC, IFP, EFF, and PA coalition. Said a source:
<blockquote>
The NEC could not bring itself to work with the DA and preferred the so-called “black pact” grouping. Ideologically it makes sense for the ANC.
</blockquote>
Another IOL source said the sense from the NEC was that if the ANC-DA coalition was pushed, it will end in tears for Ramaphosa. Said the source:
<blockquote>
The NEC will recall him if this line continues. The last meeting was a clear indicator of this. In fact, the GNU could very well have a different president in a couple of months. That is how fluid the situation is right now.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Seepe warned that the ANC-DA coalition would be the total end of the ANC.
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Ramaphosa Loses Grip On ANC NEC Amid GNU Talks With DA | Report

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has filed an urgent application at the Constitutional Court to interdict the first sitting of Parliament set for Friday, 14 June.
According to <a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/politics/political-parties/live-all-the-latest-news-analysis-and-results-from-the-2024-south-african-general-elections-20240527">News24</a>, MKP is taking Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, Parliament secretary Xolile George and others to the ConCourt over the party’s claims that, without its presence at the swearing-in, the first sitting will not quorate.
In a two-part application, the MKP asks the Constitutional Court to urgently hear its application and to interdict Friday’s first sitting of the National Assembly from proceeding.
In the second part, the party is seeking the court to declare Zondo’s and Secretary to Parliament Xolile George’s conduct in proceeding with the sitting as “inconsistent with the Constitution”.
MKP also want a declaratory order that the National Assembly is not properly constituted if the first sitting “consists of no less than 340 members and no more than 400” and if these members have not been sworn in.
Furthermore, the party wants the apex court to set aside the Electoral Commission of South Africa’s (IEC) declaration of the elections as free and fair and to order President Cyril Ramaphosa to proclaim another election.
MKP secretary-general Sihle Ngubane alleges in his affidavit that there is a “potential” tally of 590 000 votes that were affected by “discrepancies”.
Ngubane argues that the matter will end up in the Electoral Court and therefore a new president cannot be elected before the matter has been heard.
Parliament will continue with the sitting unless interdicted by the ConCourt.
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MK Party Files Urgent ConCourt Application To Interdict First Sitting Of Parliament

The Federal Council of the Democratic Alliance (DA) was set to meet on Monday at the party’s headquarters in Bruma, Johannesburg.
As reported by <a href="https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/da-federal-council-meets-on-monday-to-discuss-gnu/">SABC News</a>, the party’s top leadership will be discussing power-sharing arrangements with the African National Congress (ANC) and other parties.
The DA garnered nearly 22% of the national vote, won the majority in the Western Cape, and showed a presence in all other provinces in the 29 May 2024 National and Provincial elections.
DA’s National Spokesperson Solly Malatsi said that the party will also specifically look at the ANC proposal to form a government of national unity (GNU). Said Malatsi:
<blockquote>
The DA welcomes the fact that negotiations are now moving to a substantive negotiation phase. Our negotiation team based on the announcement made by the president last night have further meetings with other parties to listen to their views and reactions.
We also hope to get more details from the ANC about the finer details of what a government of national unity entails which will then be deliberated by our federal executive and subsequently, our federal council will then be deliberated on Monday.
</blockquote>
The proposal to have the ANC and the DA working together has drawn mixed reactions, with the South African Communist Party saying it would be going against its anti-capitalist agenda.
Meanwhile, the DA laid down stringent conditions under which parties would be included in the GNU.
The party said it would only agree to be part of ANC’s proposed governing structure if the uMkhonto weSizwe, Economic Freedom Fighters and Patriotic Alliance were excluded.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/gnu-arrogant-da-could-find-itself-out-of-multiparty-government-says-mk-party-b27678be-6c95-4096-ab01-2e03a720a251">IOL</a>, senior MK leader Muzi Ntshingila said the DA will likely be out of the GNU. Said Ntshingila:
<blockquote>
The DA has already isolated itself by being arrogant in ignoring the will of the people and the majority who voted for MK in KwaZulu-Natal.
Progressive black forces are willing to put the country and the vision of the majority of our people first and will come together to do that.
</blockquote>
Ntshingila added the party’s stance on not accepting ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa as part of any new formation still stands.
He, however, hinted at compromises being made to ensure their bigger prize in keeping the DA out of any government coalition is achieved.
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DA Federal Council Meets To Discuss GNU

Julius Malema, the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party in South Africa has rejected ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa’s plan for a Government of National Unity (GNU), which would include all political parties with parliamentary seats.
A Coalition Government is formed when no single party secures an outright majority. It involves multiple parties coming together to govern, often based on shared policy goals.
In contrast, a GNU is also a coalition government, but it brings together diverse political perspectives. A GNU’s primary goal is to ensure stability, foster collaboration, and address critical national issues.
Posting on X (formerly Twitter) Malema said “We can’t share power with the enemy,” referring to the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa’s second-largest political party. In another tweet, Malema said:
<blockquote>
The arrogance continues even after the South African voters issued warning signs. You can’t dictate the way forward as if you have won elections. We are not desperate for anything, ours is a generational mission.
</blockquote>
Malema was responding to Ramaphosa’s announcement on Thursday night that they would form a GNU with all parties advancing South Africa.
The DA has said it will not go into coalition with the EFF and Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party led by former ANC president Jacob Zuma.
DA leader John Steenhuisen recently said the party should rescue South Africa from what he calls the “doomsday coalition” referring to an ANC-EFF-MKP coalition.
Speaking from the floor of the DA’s Federal Congress in April 2023, Steenhuisen “the forces of destruction” in the ANC and EFF and smaller parties such as the Patriotic Alliance, were converging towards forming a Doomsday Coalition after the 2024 general election. At the time, teenhuisen said the following:
<blockquote>
The day that an ANC-EFF government takes over, will be Doomsday for South Africa. EFF Doomsday will make the collapse of Zimbabwe look like a dress rehearsal and will leave all South Africans destitute – black, coloured, white and Indian.
That is why, during the remaining months before next year’s election, the DA will make it our number one priority – and do absolutely everything in our power – to prevent an ANC-EFF Doomsday Coalition from taking power.
The EFF Doomsday Coalition will expropriate property without compensation and abolish private property rights.
The EFF Doomsday Coalition will nationalise and destroy foreign investment, businesses, banks and mines.
The EFF Doomsday Coalition will plunge this country into ethnic and racial conflict the likes of which it has never witnessed before.
</blockquote>
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Malema Rejects GNU, Demands A Coalition Government

South Africa’s Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has confirmed talks with the ANC, DA, and NFP on a proposed government of national unity (GNU), following the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
This comes after ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday announced that the party was seeking to form a government of national unity with a broad group of parties including EFF, IFP, DA, NFP and PA.
Ramaphosa announced on Thursday night following a meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni.
In a statement issued this Friday, 07 June 2024, IFP National Spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said they had a meeting with the ANC on Sunday where three scenarios were presented, namely; Grand Coalition, Government of National Unity, and Minority Government.
Hlengwa said that in principle, the IFP is not against a GNU, adding that the party will make a well-considered decision once all details about the proposed government are put on the table. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Inkatha Freedom Party has over the past few days engaged with the ANC, DA, and NFP on the way forward for the country, following the 2024 National &amp; Provincial Elections.
The will of the people has been clearly expressed through the ballot box, that coalitions are the new order and the IFP accepts this new political reality.
At our meeting with the ANC on Sunday, 02 June 2024, three scenarios were presented, inter alia-1) Grand Coalition, 2) Government of National Unity, and 3) Minority Government.
It is abundantly clear that difficult choices and political considerations of material consequences for the country are upon us.
Accordingly, the IFP Coalitions Task Team resolved that the ANC must be given space and time to apply its mind and consult further.
In light of the announcement made by the ANC last night pronouncing a Government of National Unity (GNU) as its preferred option, the IFP Coalitions Task Team will now engage the ANC and other Parties further and report back to the IFP NEC on Monday, 10 June 2024.
The IFP will broaden the scope of its engagement with other Parties, particularly as we all grapple with the possibility, viability and dynamics of a Government of National Unity.
In principle, the IFP is not averse to a GNU. However, the devil is in the details, which will become clearer in the coming days thus enabling the IFP to make a well-considered decision.
The IFP remains committed to giving this matter of national importance its priority attention and putting South Africa first.
Our discussions continue to be guided by our policies and 13-point manifesto plan, the Constitution, and the rule of law.
</blockquote>
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South Africa's IFP Has No Problem With A GNU Comprising ANC, DA, And NFP

South Africa’s governing party, the African National Congress (ANC) says it will form a government of national unity (GNU) with all parties advancing South Africa, reported <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/anc-resorts-to-government-of-national-unity-for-stability-peace-and-progress-in-south-africa-says-ramaphosa-c83b42cb-69ae-4202-a6e6-87fbaefd34da">IOL</a>.
Addressing journalists following a meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa said:
<blockquote>
We have agreed that we will invite political parties to form a government of national unity as the best option to move our country forward.
The modalities of the government of national unity will take into account the conditions prevailing at this moment in our country’s history.
The purpose of this government of national unity must be first and foremost to tackle the pressing issues that South Africans want to be addressed.
</blockquote>
According to Ramaphosa, the pressing issues included job creation and inclusive economic growth, the high cost of living, service delivery, crime and corruption.
He said the ANC has heard the concerns of the people of South Africa, adding that the party remained a pivotal partner in the country’s search for a way forward.
Ramaphosa said the ANC had already engaged Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), the Democratic Alliance (DA), National Freedom Party (NFP), and the Patriotic Alliance (PA).
He revealed that the NEC mandated its negotiating task team to proceed to engage parties on their proposal. He said:
<blockquote>
They will also reach out to a broader range of parties to enrich the process and promote inclusiveness.
We have agreed as this NEC that it is both necessary and strategic that we act in a manner that seeks to unite the broadest range of social forces and isolate those that seek to cause chaos, instability and division.
As the ANC, we will be reaching out to formations across society to build a shared programme for social and economic change.
</blockquote>
The ANC lost its Parliamentary majority for the first time in its 30 years of rule after the end of apartheid in 1994.
The ANC got 40.18% support, with the DA on 21.81% votes, the former president Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) got 14.58%, and EFF got 9.52% votes.
With South Africa’s proportional representation system, the ANC has to combine with one or more other parties to attain more than 50% of the vote to form a government.
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ANC Plans A Government Of National Unity With IFP, EFF, DA, NFP And PA

Outspoken ANC heavyweight and National Executive Committee (NEC) member Lindiwe Sisulu has warned her comrades against forming a coalition government with the Democratic Alliance (DA).
For the first time since 1994, the ANC failed to win a majority in Parliament in the 29 May elections, resulting in the governing party seeking coalition partners.
Reports suggest that ANC President, Cyril Ramaphosa, was considering a “soft coalition” with the DA.
<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/the-star/news/da-anc-pact-spits-on-struggle-icons-graves-a83a88ab-f926-4e79-910c-391050a81eba">IOL</a> reported that the partnership would see the DA take up strategic positions in government and the legislatures.
The ANC scored 40.18% at the polls, the DA achieved 21.80%, while former president Jacob Zuma’s newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) scored 17.4%.
Since the ANC did not meet the 50% threshold required for an outright majority, it would need a coalition partner to govern.
However, speaking to Independent Media, on Monday, Sisulu said a coalition with the DA would be spitting on the graves of fallen freedom fighters. She said:
<blockquote>
Firstly this looming disaster, if the ANC would ever partner with the DA, could’ve been avoided had the IEC (Electoral Commission of SA) done its work properly.
I was instrumental in setting up the IEC because I was deputy minister of Home Affairs at the time when Buthelezi was minister of Home Affairs. I ended up signing a lot of the legislation which saw the IEC did its work properly.
I would think that after 30 years the commission would be able to run a fair and transparent election.
Since 26 parties complained about the counting and the results, the IEC for its own credibility should’ve issued a recount. That has brought us to this.
In all the time I spent in prison fighting apartheid, I did not do it for the DA. The DA is the epitome of what the previous government represents.
The idea that black parties cannot govern is very racist. It is an insult for people who oppressed us and who threw us in jail for fighting for justice to tell us that we can’t govern.
The president of the ANC cannot enter a coalition with any party without the NEC’s approval. He is president of the country because of the ANC voters. He will not throw those votes away.
I hear the discussions in the media and some quarters of society saying that it will be good for the country and good for capital if the ANC went into bed with the DA, well those are the talks of capital.
I know that the president has friends in capital, but capital doesn’t decide internal ANC matters. If it does then perhaps I’m in the wrong party.
</blockquote>
Asked if she supports an ANC-MK coalition, Sisulu said many of the soldiers that she trained with in the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) camp who later left the ANC were justified in walking that path. She said:
<blockquote>
I was trained in MK. When we were in the camps I used to imagine that one day we’d come home dressed in our uniform and land at the airport to the salute of our people.
But when we landed, the MK soldiers were starved. They were not taken care of, but other people, who came out of nowhere were the ones giving us orders.
Today those people are at the top seats in our movement. The MK soldiers and comrades are our comrades.
We must lead the ANC back to glory. I never thought I’d see the day when our very movement takes orders from Stellenbosch.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the MK Party is looking to derail the election of a new president by threatening not to send its 58 members to the first sitting of Parliament.
This over objections to the 29 May polls and a demand for a vote recount.
The MK believes that a National Assembly should comprise at least 350 members to constitute a quorum.
However, constitutional law academic, Pierre de Vos, told <a href="https://www.ewn.co.za/2024/06/04/mk-looks-to-scupper-election-of-new-president-with-threat-not-to-attend-first-parliament-sitting">EWN</a> that even if MK members were not present, the show would go on.
He also warned that if the elected MK members stayed away from Parliament for 15 consecutive sessions, they stood to lose their seats.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

DA-ANC Deal Would Be A Disaster, ANC Heavyweight, Lindiwe Sisulu, Warns Ramaphosa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday said that the final announcement of the 2024 National and Provincial election results represented “a victory for our democracy, for our constitutional order and for all the people of South Africa.”
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) announced the results on Sunday evening despite threats of violence made by former president Jacob Zuma on Saturday night.
Zuma, who now leads the Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, on Saturday night threatened violence should the IEC “rush” to declare the results on Sunday amid 500 objections.
In his address at the IEC Results Operation Centre, at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg, yesterday, Ramaphosa said political parties should respect the wishes of the people who participated in the election. 
Ramaphosa praised the IEC for conducting what he described as a successful election that has been free, fair and peaceful. He said:
<blockquote>
The Independent Electoral Commission has, despite many challenges, once more acquitted itself with excellence, professionalism and integrity.
Millions of South Africans have cast their votes in cities and towns, in villages and on farms, at voting stations at home and abroad…
South Africans have demonstrated that they want to be part of making this country a better place.
South Africans have shown how important their vote is and that they know that their vote counts.
By going to vote, the people of South Africa have taken responsibility not only for the future of themselves and their families, but for the future of their country.
Through their votes they have demonstrated, clearly and plainly, that our democracy is strong, it is robust and it endures.
They have given effect to the clarion call that has resonated across the generations, that the people shall govern…
As the leaders of political parties, as all those who occupy positions of responsibility in society, we have heard the voices of our people and we must respect their wishes.
</blockquote>
Ramaphosa added:
<blockquote>
And now, we are all called upon to recognise that the results of the election reflect the will of the people.
What this election has made plain is that the people of South Africa expect their leaders to work together to meet their needs.
They expect the parties for which they have voted to find common ground, to overcome their differences, to act and work together for the good of everyone.
Our people expect all parties to work together within the framework of our constitution and address whatever challenges we encounter peacefully and in accordance with the prescripts of our constitution and the rule of law.
</blockquote>
The governing ANC won considerably fewer than half the seats in South Africa’s National Assembly.
It won 159 of 400 seats, the country’s electoral commission said. In the previous parliament, it had 230 seats.
The DA increased from 84 to 87, while the newly-formed MK Party won 58 seats. Julius Malema’s EFF lost five seats, from 44 to 39.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Ramaphosa Accepts Election Results, Says They Reflect The Will Of South Africans

South Africa’s governing party, the African National Congress (ANC) has won considerably fewer than half the seats in South Africa’s National Assembly. The party won 159 of 400 seats.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa’s chairperson Mosotho Moepya announced the results of the May 29 elections and declared the polls free and fair.
Moepya announced the results at the IEC national results operations centre in Midrand on Sunday evening.
On Sunday afternoon, security cluster ministers said the security forces were on standby to ensure the safety of citizens amid threats of violence made by former president Jacob Zuma on Saturday night.
Zuma, who now leads the Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, threatened violence should the IEC declare the results amid 500 objections.
<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/elections-declared-free-and-fair-this-is-who-is-going-to-parliament-bc68fdaf-ca35-45ca-8842-5b3a9cc7c13b">IOL</a> reported that the IEC said the irregularities were immaterial to the election results.
Moepya said the May 29 elections had tested the strength of South Africa’s institutions. He said:
<blockquote>
They have shown and demonstrated the resolve to embrace democracy at a time such as this. These elections are the most difficult and most contested.
There are many challenges we have negotiated and had to overcome.
Just as the 1994 elections laid the foundations for our democratic order, the IEC has never sought to waiver from its commitment to deliver elections that are free, fair and credible.
</blockquote>
President Cyril Ramaphosa said despite the many challenges, the elections were free, fair, credible and peaceful. He said:
<blockquote>
The IEC has despite many challenges, difficulties and mountains, you have acquitted yourself with excellence and integrity and we applaud you.
Millions of South Africans have cast their votes in villages, towns and farms. South Africans care very much about their country as exemplified in the manner they went to vote.
South Africans have shown how important their vote is and that they know their vote counts.
Our people have spoken, whether we like it or not. As the leaders of political parties, we have heard the voices of our people. We must respect their choices and their wishes.
</blockquote>
Ramaphosa’s ANC lost over 17% of their votes after it garnered 40% of the total vote as the party slumped below 50% for the first time since the advent of majority rule in 1994.
The DA was second with 21%, MK third with 14%, EFF 9% and the IFP, 3.85%.
The ANC is returning to Parliament with 159 seats, down from 230 it received in 2019. 
The EFF lost five seats, from 44 to 39. The DA’s have increased from 84 to 87. They gained three seats.
Zuma’s MK Party shocked the nation after performing well in the elections. It has obtained 58 seats.
The distribution of parliamentary seats was as follows:
<ul>
<li>ANC – 159</li>
<li>DA – 87</li>
<li>MK – 58</li>
<li>EFF – 39</li>
<li>IFP – 17</li>
<li>PA – 9</li>
<li>FF+ – 6</li>
<li>ActionSA – 6</li>
<li>ACDP – 3</li>
<li>UDM – 3</li>
<li>ATM – 2</li>
<li>AL-JAMA – 2</li>
<li>BOSA – 2</li>
<li>NCC – 2</li>
<li>RISE – 2</li>
<li>GOOD – 1</li>
<li>PAC – 1</li>
<li>UAT – 1</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ANC Wins 159 Of 400 Seats In South Africa's Parliament

African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has said his party is open to coalition talks, but discussions about removing President Cyril Ramaphosa are a “no-go area”, reported <a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/politics/political-parties/ditching-ramaphosa-is-a-no-go-area-for-anc-in-coalition-talks-says-fikile-mbalula-20240602">News24.com</a>.
With 99.91 per cent of the votes from Wednesday’s election counted, Ramaphosa’s ANC had only 40.2 per cent, a catastrophic slump from the 57.5 per cent it won in 2019.
The party must negotiate a coalition government with one or several other parties or at least persuade others to back Ramaphosa’s re-election in parliament to allow him to form a minority administration.
Addressing the media at the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) national results operations centre on Sunday morning, Mbalula said the party is open to coalition talks.
He, however, warned that discussions about removing Ramaphosa are a “no-go area” and everything must be guided by respect for the Constitution and the rule of law.
Mbalula condemned the threats of violence made by former president Jacob Zuma on Saturday night and called on all South Africans to resist the efforts of “those forces” that want to undermine democracy.
Zuma, who now leads the Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, threatened violence should the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) declare the election results on Sunday evening as they currently stand without a recount.
On Sunday Mbalula asked South Africans to stand together against those who threaten violence. He said:
<blockquote>
The ANC is committed to the formation of a government that reflects the will of the people, that is stable and that is able to govern effectively…
The ANC is open to talking with everyone, including the MK Party. That’s where we are; talks about talks are in full swing.
</blockquote>
Mbalula said the ANC’s national executive committee will have a meeting on Tuesday, and a way forward will be communicated thereafter.
He reiterated that any demands for Ramaphosa to step aside will not be entertained. Said Mbalula:
<blockquote>
Ramaphosa is the president of the ANC. If you come to us with a demand that Ramaphosa must stand down as president, that is not going to happen. That is a no-go area.
</blockquote>
He said the ANC would take up the opposition benches if needs be, adding: “We will not be bullied. “And you’ll see the biggest opposition benches ever.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Ditching Ramaphosa A "No-go Area" For ANC In Coalition Talks - Mbalula

South Africa’s governing party, the African National Congress (ANC), is on course to lose its majority in parliament for the first time since it came to power in 1994, according to partial results from Wednesday’s parliamentary election, reported the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjll8nr6962o">BBC</a>.
With results from 56% of voting districts released so far, the ANC is leading with 42%, followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 24%.
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) led by former President Jacob Zuma has received 11% of the vote and Julius Malema’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, nearly 10%.
Final results are expected over the weekend.
South Africa’s electoral commission’s (IEC) online system streaming the election results crashed on Friday morning, leaving poll screens showing zero results.
The IEC has apologised for the issue and later restored the service, saying the election results had not been compromised.
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the News24 website have projected that the ANC’s final vote will be around 42%, a big drop from the 57% it obtained in the 2019 election.
This will force it to go into a coalition with one or more of the other parties to form a majority in parliament.
The main opposition, the DA has liberal economic policies, while both the EFF and MK favour more state intervention and nationalisation.
The chairman of the non-profit Democracy Works Foundation, Prof William Gumede, told BBC that President Cyril Ramaphosa could come under pressure from the ANC to resign if the party gets less than 45% of the final vote. He said:
<blockquote>
The ANC could turn him into a scapegoat, and a faction within the party could push for him to be replaced by his deputy, Paul Mashatile.
The EFF and MK are also likely to demand his resignation before agreeing to any coalition with the ANC.
</blockquote>
South Africans do not directly vote for a president. Instead, they vote for members of parliament who will then go on to elect the president.
The initial results show that Zuma’s party, MK, has been leading in KwaZulu-Natal Province with 43% of the vote to the ANC’s 21%.
KwaZulu-Natal is the home region of Zuma and the province with the second-highest number of votes.
Although Zuma has been barred from running for parliament because of a conviction for contempt of court, his name still appeared on the ballot paper as MK leader.
According to Prof Gumede, if MK wins KwaZulu-Natal, it would be a “major upset” and herald the “potential decimation” of the ANC in the province.
The ANC also risks losing its majority in South Africa’s economic heartland, Gauteng Province, where the party currently has 36% to the DA’s 29%.
A record 70 parties and 11 independents participated in the election, with South Africans voting for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

South Africa Elections: ANC On Course To Lose Majority In Parliament

Zimbabwean opposition leader, Nelson Chamisa, has commended South Africa’s electoral commission, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for its “professionalism” during the neighbouring country’s current electoral cycle.
South African voters will go to the polls to elect a 400-member National Assembly tomorrow, 29 May. The newly-elected Members of Parliament will then elect the country’s next president.
Posting on X, Chamisa said the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) should learn how to run elections from South Africa’s IEC. He wrote:
<blockquote>
While no institution is 100% perfect, I commend the independence, extent of integrity and level of professionalism exhibited by the [Independent Electoral Commission] during this election cycle thus far.
The standard set has been fantastic, especially the transparency, accountability and approachability of the IEC of South Africa.
The political and election environment in South Africa has been a template for integrity and fairness to be emulated by all others elsewhere especially [Zimbabwe Electoral Commission]. 
. 
I’m impressed by how SA conducted the voting process for citizens in the diaspora displaying excellence and global best practices.
Holding credible, unrigged, legitimate and undisputed elections is a key tenet and facet of a New Africa.
The IEC SA has provided an excellent template and source of inspiration giving valuable lessons for election management bodies elsewhere, particularly in Zimbabwe.
State institutions serve as the guardrails and guarantors of functioning and flourishing democracies. Institutions must be free from partisan poison, enclave politics and partocracy.
They must be free to perform their patriotic and constitutional duties allowing citizens to flourish in functioning democracies.
</blockquote>
ZEC has faced significant criticism, particularly during the 2023 elections. It was accused of gerrymandering and withholding the Voters Roll in the run-up to the elections and failure to avail ballot papers on voting day.
Gerrymandering refers to the political manipulation of electoral district boundaries with the intent to create undue advantage for a particular party, group, or socioeconomic class within a constituency.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chamisa Says ZEC Should Learn From South Africa’s Electoral Commission

Nearly 28 million South Africans are set to head to the polls on Wednesday, 29 May 2024 in what is set to be its most tightly-contested general election since the end of apartheid in 1994.
Opinion polls suggest the governing African National Congress (ANC) party could lose its majority for the first time in 30 years, reported <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/south-african-election-who-are-the-main-parties-when-is-it-taking-place-and-can-the-anc-hold-on-to-power-13141187">Sky News</a>.
The vote will mark South Africa’s seventh democratic general election – with the country having gone to the polls every five years since Nelson Mandela became president as the head of the ANC in 1994.
The elections take place amid high rates of unemployment and crime.
<h2>How does South Africa’s election work?</h2>
<ul>
<li>Voters will cast three votes on election day. One ballot paper asks electors to vote for a political party. These parties are then allocated a share of 200 seats in the National Assembly based on how many votes they get.</li>
<li>The second one is a “province-to-national” ballot, which will include parties and independent candidates seeking to represent each of South Africa’s nine provinces in the National Assembly. Politicians elected in this second ballot will take up the other 200 seats in the assembly, with each province allocated a number of seats based on the size of its population.</li>
<li>The third ballot will be to elect members of the provincial legislature.</li>
</ul>
In South Africa, voters do not directly elect the president. The 400 members of the National Assembly vote for a new head of state within 30 days of the general election.
<h2>Who is running in the election?</h2>
Seventy (70) political parties and 11 independent candidates will contest the national and provincial elections. The national ballot will have 52 parties listed.
<h2>What are the main opposition political parties?</h2>
South Africa’s main opposition is the centre-right Democratic Alliance (DA) led by John Steenhuisen. He has suggested he would be willing to form a coalition with the ANC if his party doesn’t secure a majority.
The DA claims South Africa is in a “crisis” under the current government and wants the nation to move towards more privatisation.
The third largest party in parliament is the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) – led by former ANC youth league leader Julius Malema.
The EFF wants to nationalise mines, banks and other key parts of the economy.
There is also the MK Party, led by former South African President Jacob Zuma – who was ousted in 2018 after facing corruption allegations.
Zuma remains the face of the MK Party’s campaign despite the fact he has been banned from running in the election because of his previous criminal conviction.
<h2>Who is expected to win the election?</h2>
Some polls have suggested the ANC is heading for less than 50% of the vote for the first time since 1994.
If that happens, the ANC may have to enter into a coalition, but South Africa’s constitution doesn’t lay out how a coalition would work.
<h2>Who is most likely to be South Africa’s next president?</h2>
The ANC is still expected to win the largest share of the vote, so its leader President Cyril Ramaphosa is likely to remain in office unless he faces an internal challenge.
<h2>When will we know the result?</h2>
By law, South Africa’s Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has seven days in which to announce full results.
However, the IEC normally starts releasing partial results within hours of the polling stations closing.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

South African Set For Its Most Tightly-contested General Election Since 1994

South Africa’s Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) said that Zimbabwe’s governing party, ZANU PF, has not been accredited to observe the 29 May national and provincial elections.
This comes after ZANU PF Secretary General Obert Mpofu last week revealed that South Africa’s ruling party, ANC, had invited them to help their elections campaign.
A few days later, ANC and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed they had invited ZANU PF to observe the elections.
This was criticised by several South African opposition parties including the African Transformation Movement (ATM).
ATM leader Vuyo Zungula then wrote to the IEC protesting the move, saying allowing ZANU PF to observe South Africa’s elections risks tarnishing the legitimacy and credibility of the country’s electoral processes.
In response to Zungula, the IEC chairperson Mosotho Moepya said they have not accredited ZANU PF or any other political party to observe the elections in South Africa. Said Moepya:
<blockquote>
I acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 10 May 2024 in which you expressed concerns regarding ZANU PF’s participation in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections as an observer.
The Commission would like to reassure you and the ATM community that it has not accredited ZANU PF or any other political party, to observe the elections in South Africa.
The Commission strongly believes in the integrity of the elections it manages and therefore safeguards against measures that would compromise its processes.
</blockquote>
South African citizens will head to the polls on May 29 2024 to cast their votes for both the national and provincial elections.
For the first time, individuals not associated with political parties can stand as independent candidates in both national and provincial elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"ZANU PF Has Not Been Accredited To Observe South Africa’s May 29 Elections"

South Africa’s official opposition, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has accused the ruling African National Congress (ANC) of violating the Electoral Code of Conduct after inviting Zimbabwe’s ZANU PF to help its campaign in the run-up to the 29 May elections.
The ANC has reportedly enlisted the help of Zimbabwe’s governing party in the final stretch of electioneering and also to participate as an observer mission during the elections.
In a statement, DA spokesperson, Solly Malatsi, said that the ANC’s move is a desperate attempt to hang on to power by any means necessary. Said Malatsi:
<blockquote>
In its desperate attempt to hang on to power by any means necessary, the ANC is co-opting the SADC region’s electoral outcasts – ZANU-PF, to come and assist them contaminate South Africa’s electoral processes in the lead up to the general elections on 29 May.
The ANC’s invitation to ZANU-PF asking them to come and be part of their election campaign programme amounts to political interference with our elections. This compromises the Electoral Code of Conduct that all political parties swore to uphold.
ZANU-PF does not deserve to even act as an observer in the May elections because this is the same political party that has repeatedly violated Zimbabwe’s electoral laws to stay in power.
They have burnt Zimbabwe to ashes and should not be brought anywhere near what is the most consequential election in South Africa since the dawn of democracy.
</blockquote>
Malatsi said the DA will lodge an official complaint with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) over what the party believes is a direct political interference in the election. He said:
<blockquote>
The DA will be lodging an official complaint with the IEC over this direct political interference in the election and the potential harm that it could bring to the credibility of the outcome. We simply can’t allow a foreign political party to actively pursue a partisan political agenda on behalf of the ANC.
</blockquote>
Malatsi further stated that the ANC’s invitation of ZANU PF to observe South African elections shows that the two parties are political bedfellows allergic to democratic values. He said:
<blockquote>
Following Zimbabwe’s disputed elections in August 2023, which saw ZANU-PF’s Emmerson Mnangagwa controversially “re-elected” for a second term, the SADC Election Observer Mission (SADC-EOM) noted that the elections “fell short of the requirements of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the Electoral Act, and the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections (2021).”
Similarly, other observer missions – from the African Union, Commonwealth and the European Union, raised concern that the conduct of the election process impacted the credibility, transparency and inclusivity of the process.
The ANC’s Cyril Ramaphosa ignored these scathing findings and endorsed the ‘re-election’ of Mnangagwa. It’s now clear why he rushed to endorse this sham election – the ANC had already made up its mind that they were going to coopt ZANU-PF in their nefarious plan to interfere in South Africa’s electoral process.
It explains why the ANC expresses righteous indignation at the DA’s appeal to the international community to send observers to come and observe our elections in May.
They knew that this would expose their plan to bring compromised actors like ZANU-PF to bolster their waning electoral fortunes through political interference.
</blockquote>
Malatsi said the DA will do everything in its power to ensure that ZANU PF is barred from interfering in South Africa’s elections and is stopped from playing any role in observing the electoral process on 29 May.
He further asserted that ZANU PF rigged Zimbabwe’s elections many times over and will not be allowed to do the same in South Africa.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

DA Won't Allow ZANU PF To Export Vote Rigging To South Africa - Malatsi

Vuyo Zungula, the leader of the African Transformation Movement (ATM), a South African opposition political party, has written to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), over ZANU PF’s alleged involvement in observing South African elections.
South Africa is set to hold national and provincial elections on 29 May 2024 amid indications that South Africa’s ruling ANC has invited its Zimbabwean counterpart, ZANU PF, to campaign on its behalf, and participate as an observer mission during the elections.
In a letter dated 10 May 2024, addressed to IEC’s Mosotho Moepya, Zungula said allowing ZANU PF to observe South Africa’s elections risks tarnishing the legitimacy and credibility of the country’s electoral processes. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
I write to you as the President of the African Transformation Movement (ATM) to express our grave concerns regarding recent reports indicating that ZANU PF, the ruling party of Zimbabwe, intends to participate as part of an observer mission for the upcoming elections in South Africa.
We strongly condemn the notion of ZANU PF being allowed to observe our elections for several significant reasons.
Firstly, Zimbabwe has a well-documented history of electoral malpractice and voter fraud in recent years, which seriously undermines the credibility of any electoral process they are involved in.
Allowing ZANU PF to observe our elections risks tarnishing the legitimacy and credibility of our own electoral process.
Zimbabwe has faced serious challenges in conducting free and fair elections, as evidenced by reports from various international organisations over the years.
Furthermore, permitting ZANU PF to observe our elections is not only concerning due to their track record but also because of their close association with the ruling party in South Africa, the African National Congress (ANC).
Recent reports have suggested that the ANC has sought assistance from ZANU PF in their election campaign.
This raises serious questions about the impartiality and independence of any observation mission involving ZANU PF in South Africa.
Therefore, we urge the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa to reject any participation of ZANU PF in the observation of our elections. 
Instead, we recommend engaging countries and organisations with established track records of upholding democratic principles and conducting free and fair elections.
It is imperative that we safeguard the integrity of our electoral process and uphold the trust of the South African people in our democratic institutions.
Allowing ZANU PF to participate in any capacity would undermine these fundamental principles.
We trust that the IEC will give due consideration to our concerns and take appropriate action to ensure that the upcoming elections in South Africa are conducted in a transparent, credible, and impartial manner.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZANU PF’s Election Observers Will Undermine Credibility Of South Africa's Elections, Says ATM Leader

South African opposition politician Mmusi Maimane has criticised the African National Congress (ANC) for inviting Zimbabwe’s ZANU PF to campaign on its behalf ahead of the 29 May national and provincial elections.
ANC’s first deputy secretary-general, Nomvulo Mokonyane recently announced that South Africa’s ruling party had invited its Zimbabwean counterpart, ZANU PF, to campaign on its behalf, and participate as an observer mission during the elections.
Moreover, a recent report by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/anc-invites-zanu-pf-for-mop-up-rally/">The Herald</a> claimed ZANU PF Secretary General Obert Mpofu said his party will not rule out sending teams to South Africa to assist the ANC. 
However, Maimane, who leads Build One South Africa (BOSA), said ZANU PF has a track record of rigging elections, something the ANC should not seek to emulate or support. Said Maimane (via <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/why-involve-zanu-pf-rigging-masters-fumes-sa-opposition-as-anc-invites-zim-ruling-elite-to-help-mobilise-voters/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>):
<blockquote>
It is now widely accepted that ZANU PF rigs elections in Zimbabwe to favour itself and to continue its misrule of the country.
ZANU PF has used fear, intimidation, violence and suppression of and against the people of Zimbabwe.
It has presided over an autocratic, authoritarian and repressive regime, trampling on the democratic rights of Zimbabweans.
Unsurprisingly, the ANC is a bedfellow of ZANU PF, considering it too is desperate to cling to power at any cost.
We reject this with the contempt it deserves and wish to tell ZANU PF they are not welcome in South Africa…
If ZANU PF continues to influence the ANC we will no longer have free and fair elections. They will learn bad tricks from ZANU PF. They do not even know how to count votes.
</blockquote>
South Africa will hold elections on 29 May 2024, with nearly 28 million registered voters set to elect representatives to the national and provincial parliaments.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

SA's Mmusi Maimane Criticises ANC For Inviting ZANU PF To Help Campaign

Ngqabutho Nicholas Mabhena, Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Community in South Africa, advises beneficiaries of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) not to readily believe Helen Zille’s statements regarding granting them citizenship in the neighbouring country.
Helen Zille, former leader and current Federal Council Chair of the Democratic Alliance (DA), expressed in a recent interview that ZEP holders should be regularized due to their long stay in South Africa and their significant contributions to the economy.
While Zille opposes revoking their permits, she emphasizes the need for proper laws and border control by the South African government.
However, Mabhena warned that political parties in South Africa may exploit the issue of migrants as one of their rallying points in their campaigns. Said Mabhena (<a href="https://cite.org.zw/zim-community-in-sa-urges-caution-over-zilles-citizenship-stance/">via CITE</a>):
<blockquote>
South Africa is in the middle of an election campaign, whose elections will be held on May 29, 2024, and Zille has said holders of the exemption permits should be given citizenship.
Already, there is a court case which wants ZEP holders to be granted Permanent Residence Permits. Now she has taken it up to say give them citizenship.
We discussed an opinion poll by the eNCA and based on that opinion poll, it seems opposition parties are not attracting enough support to the extent that they will dislodge the ANC from power. This poll put support for the DA at 20 per cent.
While the DA is concerned about the borders it has not taken a tougher stance on migrants in SA. This is election season and migration is discussed.
</blockquote>
Mabhena suggested that Zille could be using the burning ZEP issue to attract more funding from employers for her party. He said:
<blockquote>
I am a member of the African Diaspora Forum (ADF) and know a lot of migrants will welcome what Zille is saying but we need to think deeply about the intentions in this election.
This is an election campaign right, is she trying to attract more funding from employers to her party in this election campaign?
She does make a point that migrants have made a contribution to the South African economy but what is her intention in raising this during the election campaign?
I’ve not seen the response from ActionSA which uses migration as its key message and we know ideologically ActionSA is liberal like the DA.
Is Zille trying to draw more funding from employers or is she genuine?
</blockquote>
The ZEP, along with the Lesotho Exemption Permits, was extended until November 2025. This decision affects approximately 178,000 Zimbabweans currently living and working in South Africa.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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