JOHANNESBURG – In a significant political development, the National Assembly of South Africa has re-elected Cyril Ramaphosa as president for the next five years. This decision was declared by the President of the Supreme Court of South Africa, Raymond Zondo, who presided over the initial session of the new Assembly following a secret ballot process.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Ramaphosa garnered 283 votes from the members of parliament, securing his position as president-elect. “Ramaphosa has received 283 votes from MPs, I proclaim him president-elect of South Africa,” stated Mr. Zondo during the announcement. The main opposition, Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters party, received support from 44 MPs. The election results reflect a strategic alliance, as Ramaphosa’s victory was bolstered by votes from the Democratic Alliance (DA), which primarily represents the country’s white minority. Following the general elections held on May 29, where the DA secured 87 seats and the ANC won 159 out of the 400 available in the lower house, both parties agreed on June 14 to form a government of national unity, supporting Ramaphosa’s candidacy.

The inauguration of President-elect Ramaphosa is scheduled to occur no later than June 19. Following the ceremony, he is expected to announce both the new government’s composition and its forthcoming program. This marks the beginning of Cyril Ramaphosa’s second term as president.