Cyril Ramaphosa has been re-elected as President of South Africa, receiving congratulations from global leaders including US President Joe Biden, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and others. The African National Congress (ANC) leader was elected during the first sitting of the National Assembly at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Friday, June 14.
Ramaphosa was nominated alongside Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema, securing 283 votes against Malema’s 44. There were 12 spoiled votes. His re-election follows the paths of former presidents Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma, both of whom were two-term presidents but did not complete their terms due to recalls.
In his victory speech, Ramaphosa expressed gratitude and accepted the responsibilities of the next five years. “I am humbled and honored that members of the National Assembly have, through their votes, decided to elect me to be president of the Republic of South Africa. Thank you very much. It will be a privilege and pleasure to serve this great nation in the position of president,” Ramaphosa said.
Global Leaders’ Reactions
Bola Tinubu, Nigeria: Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu congratulated Ramaphosa and praised the peaceful conduct of the election. Tinubu emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral ties between Nigeria and South Africa, highlighting their roles as strategic partners in Africa.
Joe Biden, USA: US President Joe Biden also extended his congratulations, commending South Africa’s political parties for their collaboration. Biden expressed his eagerness to continue working with South Africa to expand economic opportunities, invest in clean energy, and reinforce democratic values.
Xi Jinping, China: Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Ramaphosa, noting the strong political mutual trust and cooperation between China and South Africa. Xi recalled his fourth state visit to South Africa in August 2023, where significant consensus was reached on various issues, marking a new chapter in their relationship.
Vladimir Putin, Russia: Russia’s President Vladimir Putin appreciated Ramaphosa’s contributions to the strategic partnership between their countries. Putin expressed his desire to continue constructive dialogue and joint efforts on bilateral and international issues, and looked forward to welcoming Ramaphosa at the BRICS Summit in Kazan.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine: Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate Ramaphosa, emphasizing Ukraine’s interest in advancing bilateral cooperation. Zelenskyy also valued South Africa’s involvement in the Global Peace Summit and efforts to restore peace in Ukraine.
Ramaphosa’s inauguration is scheduled for July 19 in Pretoria, where national and foreign dignitaries, including Heads of State and Government, are expected to attend.
