Ramaphosa leads ANC into crucial election in South Africa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa faces a critical test as the ruling African National Congress heads into the upcoming elections on May 29. Ramaphosa, who has been at the forefront of efforts to clean up the image of the ANC, is under pressure to deliver on promises of economic growth and job creation.

Despite his impressive background as a former union leader and successful businessman, Ramaphosa has struggled to make significant strides in addressing the country’s high unemployment rate and frequent power cuts. These challenges have left many voters disillusioned with the ANC, and opinion polls suggest that the party may lose its majority for the first time in 30 years.

If the ANC does indeed suffer a defeat in the upcoming elections, political analysts believe that Ramaphosa’s chances of serving a second term as president may be slim. The 71-year-old leader, who played a key role in ending apartheid and drafting South Africa’s progressive constitution, has faced criticism for his handling of internal party divisions and perceived lack of decisive action on crucial reforms.

Ramaphosa’s reputation took a hit in the lead-up to the elections when he faced allegations of constitutional violations related to a large sum of cash found at his game farm. Despite denying any wrongdoing, the incident, dubbed “Farmgate,” raised questions about his integrity and leadership.

On the international stage, Ramaphosa has been praised for his advocacy for fair vaccine distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic and South Africa’s recent filing of a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. These actions have positioned him as a champion of the Global South, but critics argue that he has not offered innovative solutions to address South Africa’s pressing issues such as crime and inequality.

As the ANC’s final campaign rally drew to a close, Ramaphosa promised to “do better” in front of a crowd of supporters in Soweto. However, many attendees left before he finished his speech, underscoring the challenges he faces in winning over voters and securing a second term as president. The upcoming elections will be a crucial moment for Ramaphosa and the ANC as they navigate a changing political landscape in South Africa.