President Cyril Ramaphosa has been re-elected as the leader of the governing African National Congress (ANC) amid allegations of money laundering and corruption. He defeated his rival, Zweli Mkhize, by a margin of 2,476 votes to 1,897, positioning him to lead the ANC in the 2024 election. Both Ramaphosa and Mkhize, who has also faced corruption allegations, deny any wrongdoing. Ramaphosa is currently under investigation by police, the tax office, and the central bank over claims that he hid at least $580,000 in a sofa at his farm and then covered up its theft. A panel of legal experts appointed by the speaker of parliament has said that Ramaphosa may have violated the constitution and broken an anti-corruption law. Ramaphosa has launched legal action to annul the panel’s report and denies any wrongdoing, stating that the money came from the sale of buffaloes. The ANC has been in power since the end of white minority rule in 1994 and hopes to secure a sixth term in the 2024 parliamentary election.
‘The Future’
Following his re-election as leader of the African National Congress (ANC), President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged to renew and rebuild the organization. He stated that delegates at the 55th national conference, which is currently being held virtually, had already resolved to eliminate factionalism within the party when they met in December. Ramaphosa emphasized the need for greater urgency and purpose in addressing the multiple crises facing South Africa, including corruption within the party and the state. He stressed the importance of restoring confidence among South Africans and demonstrated humility, honesty, and integrity in the process.