South African ANC Faces Crucial Decisions as Power Grip Weakens

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is in discussions with senior African National Congress officials to resolve a political deadlock following the party’s loss of its 30-year majority. ANC is considering forming a government of national unity with other parties to maintain control and ensure Ramaphosa’s reelection.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa engaged in high-stakes discussions with senior African National Congress (ANC) officials on Thursday to navigate a political deadlock that emerged after the party lost its 30-year majority.

The ANC's National Executive Committee convened in Johannesburg to address internal divisions regarding the future direction of the party. Despite losing its long-held majority, the ANC remains the largest party and is exploring options, including forming a government of national unity, to govern the country.

According to ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, the proposal for a government of national unity aims to incorporate multiple political parties rather than forming a direct coalition with the Democratic Alliance (DA). However, debate and disagreement are anticipated.

Historically significant for leading South Africa out of apartheid under Nelson Mandela, the ANC has faced dwindling support over the last two decades amid pervasive poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

The decision-making body of over 80 top officials is tasked with charting the ANC's path forward, yet the idea of a unity government faces skepticism from other parties. The political leaders must reach a resolution before the newly elected Parliament convenes on June 16, with one of its initial tasks being the election of a president.

Ramaphosa’s bid for a second term is intertwined with the agreement process, since the ANC lacks a parliamentary majority. A potential coalition with the centrist DA—which holds the second largest vote share—could secure a majority but faces resistance from both ANC grassroots and political allies.

Moreover, the DA opposes broad agreements with many political parties, notably refusing to cooperate with Jacob Zuma's MK Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters, which won third and fourth in the elections.