South Africa’s Ramaphosa reelected to 2nd term as head of ruling ANC party

By Hassan Isilow

JOHANNESBURG (AA) - South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was reelected on Monday to a second term as leader of the ruling African National Congress Party (ANC).

Ramaphosa, 70, garnered 2,476 votes, defeating Zweli Mkhize, 65, who got 1,897. Mkhize, who previously served as party treasurer general and health minister, resigned nearly two years ago amid corruption allegations.

Ramaphosa, who himself survived an impeachment in parliament last week over corruption allegations, is now set to lead the ANC into the 2024 elections.

Paul Mashatile 61, a former premier of the Gauteng province (which includes Johannesburg and the administrative capital Pretoria) was elected deputy president, replacing incumbent David Mabuza.

Mashatile defeated Justice Minister Ronald Lamola, who got 315 votes, and Oscar Mabuyane, who got 1,858.

Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe 67, was also reelected as the party chairman. Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula 51, was elected the new secretary-general.

The ANC’s new treasurer-general is Gwen Ramakgopa.

Several women’s groups hailed the ANC for electing three women to its top seven leadership posts. Experts say Ramaphosa's win will ensure continuity and assure investors of stability and policy certainty.