South African cabinet has announced the extension of the country’s national state of disaster by one more month. In its statement, the government said that the national state of disaster will now continue until March 15.

South Africa extends national state of disaster by another month

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) is meeting urgently today to discuss further measures to contain the second wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-records-several-coronavirus-cases-near-beijing-imposes-new-restrictions-354849">COVID-19</a>.

“NCCC is meeting today, to assess developments in South Africa’s National response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” the presidency’s official Twitter account stated.&nbsp;

“Should any announcements be required on the outcomes of today’s meeting or any meetings, such announcements will be made on officials accounts of the Government Communications and Information System (GCIS) and The Presidency,” the statement said.&nbsp;

It comes after several fake WhatsApp messages were doing the rounds stating that government is going to announce a hard lockdown.&nbsp;

According to the latest government statistics, there are more than 1.1 million confirmed COVID-19 cases and 30,524 deaths since March last year. In the last 24 hours there has been 14,410 new coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

In the first six days of the new year alone 1,637 people have died.&nbsp;

Last week while addressing the nation, the President said: “the new variant called 501.V2 is now well established in the country and it appears that it may be more contagious than the virus in the first wave of infection.”

Department of health, deputy director General, Anban Pillay told WION that it is not easy to estimate the number of new variant cases as of now.&nbsp;

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) is meeting urgently today to discuss further measures to contain the second wave of COVID-19.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) is meeting urgently today to discuss further measures to contain the second wave of COVID-19. “NCCC is meeting today, to assess developments in South Africa’s National response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” the presidency’s official Twitter account stated. “Should any announcements be required on the outcomes of today’s meeting or any meetings, such announcements will be made on officials accounts of the Government Communications and Information System (GCIS) and The Presidency,” the statement said. It comes after several fake WhatsApp messages were doing the rounds stating that government is going to announce a hard lockdown. According to the latest government statistics, there are more than 1.1 million confirmed COVID-19 cases and 30,524 deaths since March last year. In the last 24 hours there has been 14,410 new coronavirus cases. In the first six days of the new year alone 1,637 people have died. Last week while addressing the nation, the President said: “the new variant called 501.V2 is now well established in the country and it appears that it may be more contagious than the virus in the first wave of infection.” Department of health, deputy director General, Anban Pillay told WION that it is not easy to estimate the number of new variant cases as of now.

President Ramaphosa convenes meeting to combat second COVID-19 wave in South Africa

The ex-mayor of South Africa's biggest city Johannesburg on Saturday launched his own party after last year quitting the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) over its approach to racial inequality.

Herman Mashaba was elected in 2016, becoming the city's first mayor not from the ruling African National Congress (ANC) since apartheid ended in 1994.

His new party, ActionSA has gained support of outspoken former ANC lawmakers including corruption whistle blower Vytjie Mentor.

His resignation from the DA was sparked by the election of the party's former leader Helen Zille as its federal council chairperson.

Zille had stoked controversy by arguing there were some positive aspects to colonialism.

Two days after Mashaba resigned, the DA's first black leader Mmusi Maimane, walked away from the party over what he described as coordinated attacks from sections of the traditionally white liberal party against affirmative action policies for the black majority population.

The DA has struggled to shed its image as a historically white party. Its share of the vote shrunk in national elections last year despite numerous scandals plaguing the ANC.

"Racism diminishes the equality and worth of a South African and sets back progress in our country," said Mashaba in an inaugural speech. "It has no place in this new party and it has no place in our country."

"We will no longer let the corrupt, the racist and the radical few speak on our behalf," said Mashaba.

The 61-year-old millionaire, who made his fortune in black hair products, was one of the most senior politicians in the pro-business DA.

In his speech, he also commented on foreign policy issues, chiding the government Cyril Ramaphosa for being soft with Zimbabwe.

"This crisis impacts our country deeply, and it is now time for a new approach," he said.&nbsp;

"It is time for hard diplomacy. We must adopt the strongest and harshest policies against an oppressive government, and not punish the people of Zimbabwe."&nbsp;

Zimbabwean authorities have in recent months arrested several opposition activists and government critics in what is widely seen as a campaign to crush dissent.

The ex-mayor of South Africa's biggest city Johannesburg on Saturday launched his own party after last year quitting the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) over its approach to racial inequality.

The ex-mayor of South Africa's biggest city Johannesburg on Saturday launched his own party after last year quitting the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) over its approach to racial inequality. Herman Mashaba was elected in 2016, becoming the city's first mayor not from the ruling African National Congress (ANC) since apartheid ended in 1994. His new party, ActionSA has gained support of outspoken former ANC lawmakers including corruption whistle blower Vytjie Mentor. His resignation from the DA was sparked by the election of the party's former leader Helen Zille as its federal council chairperson. Zille had stoked controversy by arguing there were some positive aspects to colonialism. Two days after Mashaba resigned, the DA's first black leader Mmusi Maimane, walked away from the party over what he described as coordinated attacks from sections of the traditionally white liberal party against affirmative action policies for the black majority population. The DA has struggled to shed its image as a historically white party. Its share of the vote shrunk in national elections last year despite numerous scandals plaguing the ANC. "Racism diminishes the equality and worth of a South African and sets back progress in our country," said Mashaba in an inaugural speech. "It has no place in this new party and it has no place in our country." "We will no longer let the corrupt, the racist and the radical few speak on our behalf," said Mashaba. The 61-year-old millionaire, who made his fortune in black hair products, was one of the most senior politicians in the pro-business DA. In his speech, he also commented on foreign policy issues, chiding the government Cyril Ramaphosa for being soft with Zimbabwe. "This crisis impacts our country deeply, and it is now time for a new approach," he said. "It is time for hard diplomacy. We must adopt the strongest and harshest policies against an oppressive government, and not punish the people of Zimbabwe." Zimbabwean authorities have in recent months arrested several opposition activists and government critics in what is widely seen as a campaign to crush dissent.

South Africa's Johannesburg ex-mayor launches new party

South Africa is reeling from coronavirus-linked corruption scandals that have battered President Cyril Ramaphosa's credibility and the country's image abroad, but spurred unprecedented efforts to boost transparency.

The outcry began with reports that local government officials were hoarding and selling food donations meant for families without income during lockdown.

Then some hospitals found that state purchases of masks, gowns and other protective equipment (PPE) were not reaching staff.

But anger reached its zenith when funds from a landmark $29 billion relief package went missing. Newly-unemployed South Africans queued for hours for grants in chilly winter mornings, only to be told their share of the aid was not available.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-re-instates-curfew-booze-ban-as-coronavirus-cases-spike-312871">South Africa re-instates curfew, booze ban as coronavirus cases spike</a>

"That corruption is more real than previous cases when money was stolen from (state-owned enterprises) Eskom and Transnet," said economic analyst Thabi Leoka.

"When hungry families are waiting for food packages, the realness of it is just very stark."

Scandals moved up the political chain last month, when the husband of presidential spokeswoman Khusela Diko was accused of securing a multimillion-rand contract for protective gear.

Further probes into coronavirus equipment tenders have since thrown other high-profile figures into the limelight.

They include ruling African National Congress (ANC) party secretary-general Ace Magashule and top health official Bandile Masuku.&nbsp;

Ramaphosa has vowed to go after individuals and companies behaving like a "pack of hyenas circling wounded prey".

South Africa is no stranger to graft. The ruling ANC forced ex-president Jacob Zuma to step down over corruption allegations in 2018.&nbsp;

He was accused of systematically plundering government coffers during his nine-year reign in a scandal known as "state capture".

"When corruption emerges in a situation that thrusts the issue of trust and social compact into focus... the stakes are higher," said Karam Singh, head of investigations at the South Africa-based Corruption Watch. &nbsp;

South Africa is reeling from coronavirus-linked corruption scandals that have battered President Cyril Ramaphosa's credibility and the country's image abroad, but spurred unprecedented efforts to boost transparency.

South Africa is reeling from coronavirus-linked corruption scandals that have battered President Cyril Ramaphosa's credibility and the country's image abroad, but spurred unprecedented efforts to boost transparency. The outcry began with reports that local government officials were hoarding and selling food donations meant for families without income during lockdown. Then some hospitals found that state purchases of masks, gowns and other protective equipment (PPE) were not reaching staff. But anger reached its zenith when funds from a landmark $29 billion relief package went missing. Newly-unemployed South Africans queued for hours for grants in chilly winter mornings, only to be told their share of the aid was not available. Also read: South Africa re-instates curfew, booze ban as coronavirus cases spike "That corruption is more real than previous cases when money was stolen from (state-owned enterprises) Eskom and Transnet," said economic analyst Thabi Leoka. "When hungry families are waiting for food packages, the realness of it is just very stark." Scandals moved up the political chain last month, when the husband of presidential spokeswoman Khusela Diko was accused of securing a multimillion-rand contract for protective gear. Further probes into coronavirus equipment tenders have since thrown other high-profile figures into the limelight. They include ruling African National Congress (ANC) party secretary-general Ace Magashule and top health official Bandile Masuku. Ramaphosa has vowed to go after individuals and companies behaving like a "pack of hyenas circling wounded prey". South Africa is no stranger to graft. The ruling ANC forced ex-president Jacob Zuma to step down over corruption allegations in 2018. He was accused of systematically plundering government coffers during his nine-year reign in a scandal known as "state capture". "When corruption emerges in a situation that thrusts the issue of trust and social compact into focus... the stakes are higher," said Karam Singh, head of investigations at the South Africa-based Corruption Watch.

Coronavirus graft scandal batters credibility of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa

South Africa has started to gradually ease its strict coronavirus lockdown on Friday,&nbsp;seeking a balance between containing the disease and providing much-needed relief for the economy.&nbsp;

The government has adopted a gradual and phased approach to re-open the country from May 1.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyber-spies-are-targetting-ongoing-covid-19-vaccination-research-programmes-across-the-world-296153" hreflang="en">Cyber spies are targetting ongoing COVID-19 vaccination research programmes across the world</a>

In a televised May Day speech, President Cyril Ramaphosa said&nbsp;"the poor and the working class are having to bear the burden of a global pandemic that has caused severe economic and social disruption,''&nbsp;adding that pre-existing challenges had been "exacerbated by the pandemic".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/novel-coronavirus-may-spread-for-at-least-another-18-months-says-study-296079" hreflang="en">Novel coronavirus may spread for at least another 18 months, says study</a>

South Africa has recorded 5,647 coronavirus cases and 103 deaths out of a population of 58 million, relatively low numbers compared with COVID-19 hotspots in Europe or the United States.

According to Trade and Industry Minister Ebrahim Patel, ''approximately&nbsp;1.5 million workers in selected industries return to work in the next phase under strict health conditions.''

Winter clothing, textile and packaging manufacturing are among the industries permitted to reopen factories. Restaurants will also open, but only for takeaway deliveries. Bans on the sale of cigarettes and alcohol will remain in effect.

Some outdoor activities such as cycling, walking and running will be allowed but for just three hours in the morning.

Social distancing and wearing masks in public and at workplaces will be mandatory.

According to Cooperative Governance Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, "companies that breach regulations will be forced to close."

Africa's most industrialised nation was already teetering with low growth and high debts when the lockdown kicked in on March 27.

Five weeks ago, President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered most citizens to remain indoors and shuttered all but essential businesses. The response to the pandemic had won praise from the World Health Organization.

South Africa has started to gradually ease its strict coronavirus lockdown on Friday, seeking a balance between containing the disease and providing much-needed relief for the economy.

South Africa has started to gradually ease its strict coronavirus lockdown on Friday, seeking a balance between containing the disease and providing much-needed relief for the economy. The government has adopted a gradual and phased approach to re-open the country from May 1. Also read: Cyber spies are targetting ongoing COVID-19 vaccination research programmes across the world In a televised May Day speech, President Cyril Ramaphosa said "the poor and the working class are having to bear the burden of a global pandemic that has caused severe economic and social disruption,'' adding that pre-existing challenges had been "exacerbated by the pandemic". Also read: Novel coronavirus may spread for at least another 18 months, says study South Africa has recorded 5,647 coronavirus cases and 103 deaths out of a population of 58 million, relatively low numbers compared with COVID-19 hotspots in Europe or the United States. According to Trade and Industry Minister Ebrahim Patel, ''approximately 1.5 million workers in selected industries return to work in the next phase under strict health conditions.'' Winter clothing, textile and packaging manufacturing are among the industries permitted to reopen factories. Restaurants will also open, but only for takeaway deliveries. Bans on the sale of cigarettes and alcohol will remain in effect. Some outdoor activities such as cycling, walking and running will be allowed but for just three hours in the morning. Social distancing and wearing masks in public and at workplaces will be mandatory. According to Cooperative Governance Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, "companies that breach regulations will be forced to close." Africa's most industrialised nation was already teetering with low growth and high debts when the lockdown kicked in on March 27. Five weeks ago, President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered most citizens to remain indoors and shuttered all but essential businesses. The response to the pandemic had won praise from the World Health Organization.

Citing 'economic hardship', South Africa begins easing lockdown

South Africa came under a nationwide military-patrolled lockdown on Friday, joining other African countries imposing strict curfews and shutdowns in an attempt to halt the spread of the coronavirus across the continent.

Some 57 million people are to be restricted to their homes during South Africa's three-week total lockdown which began at midnight.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-under-lockdown-due-to-coronavirus-288385">Countries under lockdown due to coronavirus</a>

Kenya, Rwanda and Mali are some of the African countries that have imposed restrictions to curb the spread of the coronavirus, which has been confirmed to have infected 3,203 people and killed 87.

Although Africa's toll is far lower than in Europe, the United States and the Middle East, health experts say the world's poorest continent is especially vulnerable and the figures likely fall far short of the reality.

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-third-of-humanity-under-coronavirus-lockdown-288458">One third of humanity under coronavirus lockdown</a>

Donning camouflage uniform complete with a cap, President Cyril Ramaphosa saw off soldiers before they deployed from a military base in Soweto township outside economic hub Johannesburg.

"I send you out to go and defend our people against coronavirus," Ramaphosa said. &nbsp;

"This is unprecedented, not only in our democracy but also in the history of our country, that we will have a lockdown for 21 days to go out and wage war against an invisible enemy coronavirus," he said.&nbsp;

During South Africa's shutdown there will be no jogging, dog-walking or sale of alcohol across the country, which so far has the highest number of detected infections in sub-Saharan Africa at 927, with Ramaphosa projecting it could reach 1,500 "within a few days".

Nigeria's government warned Thursday that Africa's most populous nation could soon see an "exponential" increase in infections unless contacts of confirmed cases are tracked down quicker.

South Africa came under a nationwide military-patrolled lockdown on Friday, joining other African countries imposing strict curfews and shutdowns in an attempt to halt the spread of the coronavirus across the continent.

South Africa came under a nationwide military-patrolled lockdown on Friday, joining other African countries imposing strict curfews and shutdowns in an attempt to halt the spread of the coronavirus across the continent. Some 57 million people are to be restricted to their homes during South Africa's three-week total lockdown which began at midnight. Also see: Countries under lockdown due to coronavirus Kenya, Rwanda and Mali are some of the African countries that have imposed restrictions to curb the spread of the coronavirus, which has been confirmed to have infected 3,203 people and killed 87. Although Africa's toll is far lower than in Europe, the United States and the Middle East, health experts say the world's poorest continent is especially vulnerable and the figures likely fall far short of the reality. Also read: One third of humanity under coronavirus lockdown Donning camouflage uniform complete with a cap, President Cyril Ramaphosa saw off soldiers before they deployed from a military base in Soweto township outside economic hub Johannesburg. "I send you out to go and defend our people against coronavirus," Ramaphosa said. "This is unprecedented, not only in our democracy but also in the history of our country, that we will have a lockdown for 21 days to go out and wage war against an invisible enemy coronavirus," he said. During South Africa's shutdown there will be no jogging, dog-walking or sale of alcohol across the country, which so far has the highest number of detected infections in sub-Saharan Africa at 927, with Ramaphosa projecting it could reach 1,500 "within a few days". Nigeria's government warned Thursday that Africa's most populous nation could soon see an "exponential" increase in infections unless contacts of confirmed cases are tracked down quicker.

South Africa begins 'unprecedented' military-patrolled lockdown

South Africa slipped into recession in the final three months of 2019, the country's statistics bureau said on Tuesday, the third contraction to hit the economy since the end of apartheid in 1994.

The weak performance adds pressure on President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration which has been struggling to keep his election pledge to revive economic activity.

Instead, South Africa remains dogged by high and rising debt, low growth and soaring unemployment.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/how-this-economic-slowdown-is-different-from-the-previous-ones-283955">How this economic slowdown is different from the previous ones</a>

Gross domestic product fell by 1.4 percent in the fourth quarter, after dropping by 0.8 percent in the previous three months, Statistics South Africa said.

This took growth in Africa's most industrialised country for all of 2019 to just 0.2 percent, its lowest reading since the global financial crisis in 2009.

Weak agriculture output and transport were the main drags on growth, StatsSA said, followed by construction, mining and manufacturing, which outweighed positive contributions from finance and government spending.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-after-slowdown-cases-in-china-rise-again-54-die-in-iran-283564">Coronavirus outbreak: After slowdown, cases in China rise again; 54 die in Iran</a>

Seven of the nation's 10 economic sectors contracted in the fourth quarter, StatsSA said.

"Finance, mining and personal services managed to keep their heads above water, but this was not enough to prevent the economy from sliding into its third recession since 1994," it remarked.

Drought in parts of the country and floods in others hurt agriculture and power station output, leading to disruptions in electricity, gas and water supplies.

Recession is defined as two consecutive quarters of negative growth.

South Africa previously went into recession in 2008/2009 and then again in 2018.&nbsp;

The International Monetary Fund last year urged more "decisive" reforms to boost private investment in South Africa, forecasting economic growth to remain sluggish for a sixth consecutive year in 2020.

&nbsp;

South Africa slipped into recession in the final three months of 2019, the country's statistics bureau said on Tuesday, the third contraction to hit the economy since the end of apartheid in 1994.

South Africa slipped into recession in the final three months of 2019, the country's statistics bureau said on Tuesday, the third contraction to hit the economy since the end of apartheid in 1994. The weak performance adds pressure on President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration which has been struggling to keep his election pledge to revive economic activity. Instead, South Africa remains dogged by high and rising debt, low growth and soaring unemployment. Also read: How this economic slowdown is different from the previous ones Gross domestic product fell by 1.4 percent in the fourth quarter, after dropping by 0.8 percent in the previous three months, Statistics South Africa said. This took growth in Africa's most industrialised country for all of 2019 to just 0.2 percent, its lowest reading since the global financial crisis in 2009. Weak agriculture output and transport were the main drags on growth, StatsSA said, followed by construction, mining and manufacturing, which outweighed positive contributions from finance and government spending. Also see: Coronavirus outbreak: After slowdown, cases in China rise again; 54 die in Iran Seven of the nation's 10 economic sectors contracted in the fourth quarter, StatsSA said. "Finance, mining and personal services managed to keep their heads above water, but this was not enough to prevent the economy from sliding into its third recession since 1994," it remarked. Drought in parts of the country and floods in others hurt agriculture and power station output, leading to disruptions in electricity, gas and water supplies. Recession is defined as two consecutive quarters of negative growth. South Africa previously went into recession in 2008/2009 and then again in 2018. The International Monetary Fund last year urged more "decisive" reforms to boost private investment in South Africa, forecasting economic growth to remain sluggish for a sixth consecutive year in 2020.

South Africa slips into recession

Power&nbsp;blackouts in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa caused by flash flooding have shut&nbsp;down&nbsp;mining operations&nbsp;across&nbsp;the&nbsp;country, several mining companies said on Tuesday.

Harmony Gold, Impala Platinum, and Sibanye-Stillwater&nbsp;all said they had been forced to cut production since Monday owing to&nbsp;power&nbsp;shortages.

"There are very few underground&nbsp;mines&nbsp;that operated overnight and will be operating normally today," said a spokesman for the Minerals Council, an industry body.

Eskom said on Tuesday it planned more load-shedding&nbsp;a&nbsp;South&nbsp;African term for planned&nbsp;power&nbsp;cuts due to flooding that has interrupted coal-fired&nbsp;power&nbsp;generation, but added the&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;was manageable.

Heavy rains&nbsp;across&nbsp;parts of&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa have submerged whole neighborhoods, leading to mass evacuations.

The losses to mining output a mainstay of&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa's&nbsp;exports highlights the economic impact of the&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;at ailing state utility Eskom, which has been struggling to keep the lights on for more than a decade.

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyril-ramaphosas-anc-win-closely-watched-south-africa-poll-with-absolute-majority-217627">Cyril Ramaphosa</a> has made turning Eskom and other failing state firms around a cornerstone policy, but he faces opposition from unions and interests within his ruling African National Congress.

"The ongoing load shedding is devastating for the&nbsp;country causing our economy great harm and disrupting the lives of citizens," he said in a statement on Tuesday.

"The energy challenges in this&nbsp;country&nbsp;will not be resolved overnight."

On Monday the&nbsp;country&nbsp;suffered&nbsp;power&nbsp;cuts of up to 6,000 megawatts (MW) after heavy rain and flooding triggered failures at its 4,800 MW Medupi coal-fired plant.

Harmony Gold called off its underground shifts, saying it would resume as soon as Eskom could provide assurance&nbsp;power&nbsp;supply would be more reliable. Impala Platinum had shut production at its Rustenberg and Marula&nbsp;mines&nbsp;owing to&nbsp;power&nbsp;cuts that left it functioning at 20 per cent-30&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of normal&nbsp;power.

A spokesman for the platinum miner said: "We certainly can't risk any attempt at production with this level of&nbsp;power."

Sibanye-Stillwater&nbsp;shut all its deep-level&nbsp;mines&nbsp;on Monday but aimed to send miners back underground for the afternoon shift on Tuesday.

"The outlook for this week is to maintain load shedding because of the weather, because of the coal handling challenges that we've got. Also, we have a number of units on the unplanned breakdown&nbsp;that need to return," Eskom's chief operations officer Jan Oberholzer told eNCA news channel.

"We believe it is a manageable&nbsp;crisis," Oberholzer said. "Four thousand megawatts of the problem we had yesterday was due to flooding."

Problems at Eskom have been magnified by delays and cost overruns at two giant coal-fired plants, Medupi and Kusile, which were touted as a solution to&nbsp;power&nbsp;woes when construction began a decade ago.

South&nbsp;Africa's&nbsp;GDP shrank by 0.6 per cent&nbsp;in the third quarter, the second contraction this year, partly in response to uncertainty over&nbsp;power&nbsp;supply.

Its credit rating is teetering on the brink of junk because of its economic problems and the high cost of government bailouts of failing state firms. All credit rating agencies but Moody's have cut the&nbsp;country's rating to below investment grade.

Power blackouts in South Africa caused by flash flooding have shut down mining operations across the country, several mining companies said on Tuesday. Harmony Gold, Impala Platinum, and Sibanye-Stillwater all said they had been forced to cut production since Monday owing to power shortages.

Power blackouts in South Africa caused by flash flooding have shut down mining operations across the country, several mining companies said on Tuesday. Harmony Gold, Impala Platinum, and Sibanye-Stillwater all said they had been forced to cut production since Monday owing to power shortages. "There are very few underground mines that operated overnight and will be operating normally today," said a spokesman for the Minerals Council, an industry body. Eskom said on Tuesday it planned more load-shedding a South African term for planned power cuts due to flooding that has interrupted coal-fired power generation, but added the crisis was manageable. Heavy rains across parts of South Africa have submerged whole neighborhoods, leading to mass evacuations. The losses to mining output a mainstay of South Africa's exports highlights the economic impact of the crisis at ailing state utility Eskom, which has been struggling to keep the lights on for more than a decade. President Cyril Ramaphosa has made turning Eskom and other failing state firms around a cornerstone policy, but he faces opposition from unions and interests within his ruling African National Congress. "The ongoing load shedding is devastating for the country causing our economy great harm and disrupting the lives of citizens," he said in a statement on Tuesday. "The energy challenges in this country will not be resolved overnight." On Monday the country suffered power cuts of up to 6,000 megawatts (MW) after heavy rain and flooding triggered failures at its 4,800 MW Medupi coal-fired plant. Harmony Gold called off its underground shifts, saying it would resume as soon as Eskom could provide assurance power supply would be more reliable. Impala Platinum had shut production at its Rustenberg and Marula mines owing to power cuts that left it functioning at 20 per cent-30 per cent of normal power. A spokesman for the platinum miner said: "We certainly can't risk any attempt at production with this level of power." Sibanye-Stillwater shut all its deep-level mines on Monday but aimed to send miners back underground for the afternoon shift on Tuesday. "The outlook for this week is to maintain load shedding because of the weather, because of the coal handling challenges that we've got. Also, we have a number of units on the unplanned breakdown that need to return," Eskom's chief operations officer Jan Oberholzer told eNCA news channel. "We believe it is a manageable crisis," Oberholzer said. "Four thousand megawatts of the problem we had yesterday was due to flooding." Problems at Eskom have been magnified by delays and cost overruns at two giant coal-fired plants, Medupi and Kusile, which were touted as a solution to power woes when construction began a decade ago. South Africa's GDP shrank by 0.6 per cent in the third quarter, the second contraction this year, partly in response to uncertainty over power supply. Its credit rating is teetering on the brink of junk because of its economic problems and the high cost of government bailouts of failing state firms. All credit rating agencies but Moody's have cut the country's rating to below investment grade.

South Africa's power crisis shuts down mines across country

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-airways-hit-by-crippling-strike-262310">South African Airways</a> (SAA) had to be placed on "business rescue" because there was no other viable and financially workable option to secure a credible future for the state-owned airline, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Monday.

SAA has been posting losses since 2011 and is deeply in debt. It has received more than 20 billion rand ($1.4 billion) in government bailouts over the past three years, which has achieved little more than keeping it barely afloat.

Ramaphosa ordered SAA on Wednesday to seek a business rescue as the airline is close to collapse. Business rescue is a form of bankruptcy protection where a specialist adviser takes control of a company to restructure it.

"The financial crisis had become so grave that the only way to secure its survival was to take this extraordinary measure," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyril-ramaphosas-anc-win-closely-watched-south-africa-poll-with-absolute-majority-217627">Ramaphosa</a> said in his weekly newsletter.

"With the support of lenders, government, management and workers, SAA will continue to operate while the airline undergoes the restructuring needed to make it a viable company."

SAA has been granted a 4 billion rand ($272 million) lifeline from the government and banks to launch the rescue plan, but that cash could only last for months, analysts say.

On Sunday, Minister of Public Enterprises <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-drops-graft-charges-against-finance-minister-8155">Pravin Gordhan</a> wrote in an opinion piece in the Sunday Times that the decision to rescue the airline, rather than let it fail as some analysts have argued, would save many of the 10,000 jobs at SAA.&nbsp;

After years of government dithering, the distressed state entity's crisis was increasingly seen as a test of Ramaphosa's resolve to carry out badly-needed economic reforms.

Years of corruption and mismanagement have put several state-owned enterprises in dire straits, including power utility Eskom, whose financial problems have left it struggling to keep the lights on.

Ramaphosa said although many of the state-owned firms such as Eskom are deeply in debt, they remain valuable state assets with immense capacity.

"We will not allow any of these strategic entities to fail. Rather, we need to take all necessary steps even&nbsp;drastic ones to restore them to health," he said.

South African Airways (SAA) had to be placed on "business rescue" because there was no other viable and financially workable option to secure a credible future for the state-owned airline, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Monday.

South African Airways (SAA) had to be placed on "business rescue" because there was no other viable and financially workable option to secure a credible future for the state-owned airline, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Monday. SAA has been posting losses since 2011 and is deeply in debt. It has received more than 20 billion rand ($1.4 billion) in government bailouts over the past three years, which has achieved little more than keeping it barely afloat. Ramaphosa ordered SAA on Wednesday to seek a business rescue as the airline is close to collapse. Business rescue is a form of bankruptcy protection where a specialist adviser takes control of a company to restructure it. "The financial crisis had become so grave that the only way to secure its survival was to take this extraordinary measure," Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter. "With the support of lenders, government, management and workers, SAA will continue to operate while the airline undergoes the restructuring needed to make it a viable company." SAA has been granted a 4 billion rand ($272 million) lifeline from the government and banks to launch the rescue plan, but that cash could only last for months, analysts say. On Sunday, Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan wrote in an opinion piece in the Sunday Times that the decision to rescue the airline, rather than let it fail as some analysts have argued, would save many of the 10,000 jobs at SAA. After years of government dithering, the distressed state entity's crisis was increasingly seen as a test of Ramaphosa's resolve to carry out badly-needed economic reforms. Years of corruption and mismanagement have put several state-owned enterprises in dire straits, including power utility Eskom, whose financial problems have left it struggling to keep the lights on. Ramaphosa said although many of the state-owned firms such as Eskom are deeply in debt, they remain valuable state assets with immense capacity. "We will not allow any of these strategic entities to fail. Rather, we need to take all necessary steps even drastic ones to restore them to health," he said.

Only option was to put South African Airways on rescue: Ramaphosa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent high-ranking emissaries on a mission to reassure African countries after a wave of xenophobic attacks, the presidency said on Sunday.

At least 12 people have been killed in the surge of mob violence targeting foreign-owned businesses and homes, mainly in and around Johannesburg since the start of the month.

Hundreds of economic migrants from neighbouring Zimbabwe and Mozambique have fled to shelters and Nigeria has flown 600 of its citizens back home after they were targeted in the violence.

The mission, led by former minister Jeff Radebe, left South Africa on Saturday and will visit Nigeria, Niger, Ghana, Senegal, Tanzania, DR Congo and Zambia, the presidency said.

Ramaphosa was jeered at on Saturday during his speech at Zimbabwe ex-leader Robert Mugabe's funeral in Harare before he apologised for the attacks, which have been prompted by unemployment and poverty.

"I stand before you as a fellow African to express my regret and apologise for what has happened in our country," Ramaphosa said at the state funeral.

His comments were met with cheers and blasts of air horns from the crowd.

South Africa, the continent's second-largest economy, is a major destination for other African migrants. But they are often targeted by some locals who blame them for a lack of jobs.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent high-ranking emissaries on a mission to reassure African countries after a wave of xenophobic attacks, the presidency said on Sunday.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent high-ranking emissaries on a mission to reassure African countries after a wave of xenophobic attacks, the presidency said on Sunday. At least 12 people have been killed in the surge of mob violence targeting foreign-owned businesses and homes, mainly in and around Johannesburg since the start of the month. Hundreds of economic migrants from neighbouring Zimbabwe and Mozambique have fled to shelters and Nigeria has flown 600 of its citizens back home after they were targeted in the violence. The mission, led by former minister Jeff Radebe, left South Africa on Saturday and will visit Nigeria, Niger, Ghana, Senegal, Tanzania, DR Congo and Zambia, the presidency said. Ramaphosa was jeered at on Saturday during his speech at Zimbabwe ex-leader Robert Mugabe's funeral in Harare before he apologised for the attacks, which have been prompted by unemployment and poverty. "I stand before you as a fellow African to express my regret and apologise for what has happened in our country," Ramaphosa said at the state funeral. His comments were met with cheers and blasts of air horns from the crowd. South Africa, the continent's second-largest economy, is a major destination for other African migrants. But they are often targeted by some locals who blame them for a lack of jobs.

South Africa dispatches emissaries to calm xenophobia fears

Zimbabwe gave <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mugabe-to-be-buried-in-a-month-at-zimbabwes-heroes-monument-249540">former leader Robert Mugabe</a> a state funeral on Saturday with African leaders paying tribute to a man lauded as a liberation hero but whose 37-year rule was defined by repression and economic turmoil.

Mugabe, who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/body-of-zimbabwes-mugabe-to-leave-singapore-for-burial-at-home-248929">died</a>&nbsp;in Singapore <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-zimbabwe-president-robert-mugabe-passes-away-at-95-247895">aged 95</a>, left Zimbabwe deeply divided over his legacy with the southern African country still struggling with high inflation and shortages of goods after decades of mismanagement.

Mugabe died last week on an overseas medical trip almost two years after former army loyalists forced him out in 2017, following a power struggle over what was widely perceived as his bid to position his wife Grace to succeed him.

Former and current African leaders, including South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa and Kenya's Uhuru Kenyatta, arrived in crowds chanting and drumming liberation songs at the 60,000-capacity national stadium in Harare for Saturday's ceremony.

Mugabe's casket draped in the green, black, gold and red Zimbabwe flag was marched slowly into the stadium, accompanied by a military band and an escort of officers. His wife Grace, in a black veil, and family followed behind.

"Let us put aside our differences and come together as we remember the past and look to the future as one proud, independent and free nation," Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa said in a tweet.

Mugabe's body was returned from Singapore on Wednesday to a country he helped found as an anti-colonial guerrilla and pan-African leader who ended the white-minority rule and helped bring more education and healthcare to the poor black majority.

Later, Mugabe turned to repression and fear to crush dissidents and ruled for nearly four decades during which he becomes an international pariah for his takeover of white-owned farms.

"You can't talk about Zimbabwe without Bob. Zimbabwe is Bob. It took a man like Bob, his bravery, to get independence," said Norman Gombera, 57, a school principal in Harare. "Bob did his best under the circumstances. There is no country without a problem."

'Bitter legacy'

His final burial at a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-mugabes-family-agree-to-burial-in-heroes-monument-249523">national monument</a> will only happen after a new mausoleum is built in about 30 days. That decision was taken after his family ended a dispute with Mnangagwa, a former ally who turned against his rule in 2017.

Though lauded as an African icon, at home many Zimbabweans will remember Mugabe more for the economic mismanagement that forced millions to flee the country during decades of crisis.

Many are struggling to survive despite Mnangagwa's vows of more investment and jobs in the post-Mugabe era.

"The fruits of his tenure are the shortages. That is what we remember him for," said Steven, a consultant shopping nearby the stadium.

"He has made sure there is no opposition and he succeeded. There is no reason to go to his funeral."

Always divisive in life, Mugabe's funeral arrangements were also caught up in a dispute between Mnangagwa and the family over where and when the former leader should be buried.

The two parties on Friday finally agreed he should lie at National Heroes Acre. But the final ceremony would take place in about 30 days, once the new mausoleum was built for him there.

His family are still bitter over the role Mnangagwa played in his ouster and had pushed for Mugabe to be buried in his homestead of Zvimba, northwest of Harare.

A former guerrilla who fought alongside Mugabe against colonial forces, Mnangagwa was fired as first vice president by Mugabe in 2017. Mugabe had branded him a "traitor".

Soon after, protesters took to the streets and military officers pressured Mugabe to step down in what was widely seen as a struggle between Mnangagwa's faction and loyalists to Mugabe's wife Grace inside the ruling ZANU-PF party.

The "heroes" monument, where more than 130 national figures are buried in black marble tombs, sits on a hilltop overlooking Harare. Mugabe's first wife, Sally, is also buried there.

Zimbabwe gave former leader Robert Mugabe a state funeral on Saturday with African leaders paying tribute to a man lauded as a liberation hero but whose 37-year rule was defined by repression and economic turmoil.

Zimbabwe gave former leader Robert Mugabe a state funeral on Saturday with African leaders paying tribute to a man lauded as a liberation hero but whose 37-year rule was defined by repression and economic turmoil. Mugabe, who died in Singapore aged 95, left Zimbabwe deeply divided over his legacy with the southern African country still struggling with high inflation and shortages of goods after decades of mismanagement. Mugabe died last week on an overseas medical trip almost two years after former army loyalists forced him out in 2017, following a power struggle over what was widely perceived as his bid to position his wife Grace to succeed him. Former and current African leaders, including South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa and Kenya's Uhuru Kenyatta, arrived in crowds chanting and drumming liberation songs at the 60,000-capacity national stadium in Harare for Saturday's ceremony. Mugabe's casket draped in the green, black, gold and red Zimbabwe flag was marched slowly into the stadium, accompanied by a military band and an escort of officers. His wife Grace, in a black veil, and family followed behind. "Let us put aside our differences and come together as we remember the past and look to the future as one proud, independent and free nation," Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa said in a tweet. Mugabe's body was returned from Singapore on Wednesday to a country he helped found as an anti-colonial guerrilla and pan-African leader who ended the white-minority rule and helped bring more education and healthcare to the poor black majority. Later, Mugabe turned to repression and fear to crush dissidents and ruled for nearly four decades during which he becomes an international pariah for his takeover of white-owned farms. "You can't talk about Zimbabwe without Bob. Zimbabwe is Bob. It took a man like Bob, his bravery, to get independence," said Norman Gombera, 57, a school principal in Harare. "Bob did his best under the circumstances. There is no country without a problem." 'Bitter legacy' His final burial at a national monument will only happen after a new mausoleum is built in about 30 days. That decision was taken after his family ended a dispute with Mnangagwa, a former ally who turned against his rule in 2017. Though lauded as an African icon, at home many Zimbabweans will remember Mugabe more for the economic mismanagement that forced millions to flee the country during decades of crisis. Many are struggling to survive despite Mnangagwa's vows of more investment and jobs in the post-Mugabe era. "The fruits of his tenure are the shortages. That is what we remember him for," said Steven, a consultant shopping nearby the stadium. "He has made sure there is no opposition and he succeeded. There is no reason to go to his funeral." Always divisive in life, Mugabe's funeral arrangements were also caught up in a dispute between Mnangagwa and the family over where and when the former leader should be buried. The two parties on Friday finally agreed he should lie at National Heroes Acre. But the final ceremony would take place in about 30 days, once the new mausoleum was built for him there. His family are still bitter over the role Mnangagwa played in his ouster and had pushed for Mugabe to be buried in his homestead of Zvimba, northwest of Harare. A former guerrilla who fought alongside Mugabe against colonial forces, Mnangagwa was fired as first vice president by Mugabe in 2017. Mugabe had branded him a "traitor". Soon after, protesters took to the streets and military officers pressured Mugabe to step down in what was widely seen as a struggle between Mnangagwa's faction and loyalists to Mugabe's wife Grace inside the ruling ZANU-PF party. The "heroes" monument, where more than 130 national figures are buried in black marble tombs, sits on a hilltop overlooking Harare. Mugabe's first wife, Sally, is also buried there.

Divided Zimbabwe bids farewell to Robert Mugabe with state funeral

South Africa promised on Thursday to tackle the prejudice fuelling a wave of deadly riots and xenophobic attacks, as international anger over the violence overshadowed a pan-African economic conference in Cape Town.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said at least ten people had been killed during the past week, of whom two were foreigners.

"Our country has been deeply traumatised ...by acts of violence and criminality," he said in a televised address. "There can be no excuse for attacks on homes and businesses of foreign nationals ... (or) xenophobia."

Ramaphosa had hoped the three-day World Economic Forum would serve as a shop window for his efforts to revive South Africa's ailing economy and boost intra-African trade.

But the violence, which has also led to hundreds of arrests and which government officials had until now largely blamed on criminals, has all but eclipsed those proceedings.

While the foreign victims' nationalities have not been made public, the rioting - and reprisal attacks - have above all exposed tensions between the host country and Nigeria, the continent's two biggest economies.

On Thursday Jim Ovia, chairman of Nigeria's Zenith Bank and a co-chair of the whole Cape Town event, withdrew, citing the "hypersensitivity of the issues surrounding the lives and well-being of Nigerian citizens living in South Africa."

Nigeria, whose vice president had boycotted the summit on Wednesday, also recalled its High Commissioner to South Africa.

Earlier in the day, Ramaphosa cancelled a scheduled appearance at a WEF plenary session to address a crowd protesting for a second day about violence against women.

He did address the summit in the afternoon but, flanked by several other African presidents, did not mention the anti-immigrant attacks, highlighting instead the need to root out corruption and strengthen institutions.

Walking out of a less than half-filled conference hall, he declined to be drawn on the impact of Nigeria's withdrawal as his security detail closed ranks and whisked him away.

Summit attendee Peter Attard Montalto, head of capital markets research at financial services research firm Intellidex, said that while private sector participation had been good, the government side "feels like a wasteland."

"That is obviously partly a function of the reaction to the xenophobic violence, but even the original guest list was not that big."

Earlier, on the sidelines of the conference, Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor acknowledged some of the rioting was being driven by "Afrophobia" - resentment of other Africans living and working there.

The government was working to restore calm and was in constant contact with Nigerian authorities. It would also look at school curricula to tackle "problematic attitudes", she said.

Finance Minister Tito Mboweni told the conference that politicians were partly responsible. "We have to go to our people politically to discuss what some of them are doing is wrong."

Riots, deaths

The riots began eight days ago in Pretoria before spreading to nearby Johannesburg. Both cities, in Gauteng province, have large immigrant populations.

Police on Thursday reported 15 associated deaths since then, of which Gauteng police commissioner Elias Mawela confirmed seven were directly linked to the violence. Police had also made 423 arrests. Asked about the victims' nationalities, he said that "has been taken to the pathologist."

South Africa also felt the brunt of reactions from abroad.

Tanzania's national carrier suspended flights from Dar es Salaam to Johannesburg, citing ongoing violence it said was a risk to its passengers.

South African soccer authorities said they had called off an international scheduled for Saturday against Madagascar after the visitors withdrew from the match.

In neighbouring eSwatini, the National Agricultural Marketing Board said trucks that normally carry farm produce south across the border were standing idle after advice from Pretoria counterparts that it was not safe to travel.

"We are keeping our fingers crossed that things will normalise by next week," said NAMBoard Agribusiness Manager Tammy Dlamini.

Official data on Thursday pointed to lingering economic weakness.

South Africa's trade balance swung to a deficit in the second quarter, while the current account deficit widened.

The economy grew more than forecast in the same period but it had contracted sharply in the previous three months, and the heads of two local financial firms said on Thursday that a meaningful recovery was years away.

South Africa promised on Thursday to tackle the prejudice fuelling a wave of deadly riots and xenophobic attacks, as international anger over the violence overshadowed a pan-African economic conference in Cape Town.

South Africa promised on Thursday to tackle the prejudice fuelling a wave of deadly riots and xenophobic attacks, as international anger over the violence overshadowed a pan-African economic conference in Cape Town. President Cyril Ramaphosa said at least ten people had been killed during the past week, of whom two were foreigners. "Our country has been deeply traumatised ...by acts of violence and criminality," he said in a televised address. "There can be no excuse for attacks on homes and businesses of foreign nationals ... (or) xenophobia." Ramaphosa had hoped the three-day World Economic Forum would serve as a shop window for his efforts to revive South Africa's ailing economy and boost intra-African trade. But the violence, which has also led to hundreds of arrests and which government officials had until now largely blamed on criminals, has all but eclipsed those proceedings. While the foreign victims' nationalities have not been made public, the rioting - and reprisal attacks - have above all exposed tensions between the host country and Nigeria, the continent's two biggest economies. On Thursday Jim Ovia, chairman of Nigeria's Zenith Bank and a co-chair of the whole Cape Town event, withdrew, citing the "hypersensitivity of the issues surrounding the lives and well-being of Nigerian citizens living in South Africa." Nigeria, whose vice president had boycotted the summit on Wednesday, also recalled its High Commissioner to South Africa. Earlier in the day, Ramaphosa cancelled a scheduled appearance at a WEF plenary session to address a crowd protesting for a second day about violence against women. He did address the summit in the afternoon but, flanked by several other African presidents, did not mention the anti-immigrant attacks, highlighting instead the need to root out corruption and strengthen institutions. Walking out of a less than half-filled conference hall, he declined to be drawn on the impact of Nigeria's withdrawal as his security detail closed ranks and whisked him away. Summit attendee Peter Attard Montalto, head of capital markets research at financial services research firm Intellidex, said that while private sector participation had been good, the government side "feels like a wasteland." "That is obviously partly a function of the reaction to the xenophobic violence, but even the original guest list was not that big." Earlier, on the sidelines of the conference, Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor acknowledged some of the rioting was being driven by "Afrophobia" - resentment of other Africans living and working there. The government was working to restore calm and was in constant contact with Nigerian authorities. It would also look at school curricula to tackle "problematic attitudes", she said. Finance Minister Tito Mboweni told the conference that politicians were partly responsible. "We have to go to our people politically to discuss what some of them are doing is wrong." Riots, deaths The riots began eight days ago in Pretoria before spreading to nearby Johannesburg. Both cities, in Gauteng province, have large immigrant populations. Police on Thursday reported 15 associated deaths since then, of which Gauteng police commissioner Elias Mawela confirmed seven were directly linked to the violence. Police had also made 423 arrests. Asked about the victims' nationalities, he said that "has been taken to the pathologist." South Africa also felt the brunt of reactions from abroad. Tanzania's national carrier suspended flights from Dar es Salaam to Johannesburg, citing ongoing violence it said was a risk to its passengers. South African soccer authorities said they had called off an international scheduled for Saturday against Madagascar after the visitors withdrew from the match. In neighbouring eSwatini, the National Agricultural Marketing Board said trucks that normally carry farm produce south across the border were standing idle after advice from Pretoria counterparts that it was not safe to travel. "We are keeping our fingers crossed that things will normalise by next week," said NAMBoard Agribusiness Manager Tammy Dlamini. Official data on Thursday pointed to lingering economic weakness. South Africa's trade balance swung to a deficit in the second quarter, while the current account deficit widened. The economy grew more than forecast in the same period but it had contracted sharply in the previous three months, and the heads of two local financial firms said on Thursday that a meaningful recovery was years away.

South Africa tries to contain 'Afrophobia' fallout as riots upstage summit

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday he would seek an urgent judicial review of a report in which the country`s graft watchdog concluded that he misled parliament over a campaign donation.&nbsp;

Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane`s report followed an investigation by the watchdog into a 500,000 rand ($35,878.56) donation to Ramaphosa`s 2017 campaign for the leadership of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) from the CEO of Bosasa, a services company.

Ramaphosa said the report`s findings were not rational, based in fact or arrived at through a fair and impartial process, and that he would seek a judicial review of the report, its conclusions and the remedial action it recommended.&nbsp;

"After careful study, I have concluded that the report is fundamentally and irretrievably flawed," Ramaphosa told a media briefing, adding that it was therefore appropriate the courts make a final and impartial judgment on the matter.

A spokesman for the public protector did not immediately reply to a request for comment.&nbsp;

Mkhwebane, who began the investigation following a complaint from South Africa`s opposition, said on Friday she found the president had "deliberately misled" parliament and violated the executive ethics code in regards to the donation.&nbsp;

The saga has proven a headache for Ramaphosa, who has staked his reputation on cleaning up deep-rooted corruption and reviving Africa`s most developed economy, and provided ammunition for his enemies - namely an ANC faction loyal to his predecessor Jacob Zuma.

Ramaphosa initially told parliament that the money received by his son Andile was obtained for services he had provided, but later corrected this by saying the payment was actually a donation towards his campaign.

The remedial actions Mkhwebane recommended included that the speaker of the national assembly demand the publication, within 30 days of receiving the report, of all donations received by Ramaphosa.

She also instructed the chief prosecutor to investigate whether Ramaphosa`s campaign had laundered money in its handling of donations.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday he would seek an urgent judicial review of a report in which the country`s graft watchdog concluded that he misled parliament over a campaign donation.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday he would seek an urgent judicial review of a report in which the country`s graft watchdog concluded that he misled parliament over a campaign donation. Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane`s report followed an investigation by the watchdog into a 500,000 rand ($35,878.56) donation to Ramaphosa`s 2017 campaign for the leadership of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) from the CEO of Bosasa, a services company. Ramaphosa said the report`s findings were not rational, based in fact or arrived at through a fair and impartial process, and that he would seek a judicial review of the report, its conclusions and the remedial action it recommended. "After careful study, I have concluded that the report is fundamentally and irretrievably flawed," Ramaphosa told a media briefing, adding that it was therefore appropriate the courts make a final and impartial judgment on the matter. A spokesman for the public protector did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Mkhwebane, who began the investigation following a complaint from South Africa`s opposition, said on Friday she found the president had "deliberately misled" parliament and violated the executive ethics code in regards to the donation. The saga has proven a headache for Ramaphosa, who has staked his reputation on cleaning up deep-rooted corruption and reviving Africa`s most developed economy, and provided ammunition for his enemies - namely an ANC faction loyal to his predecessor Jacob Zuma. Ramaphosa initially told parliament that the money received by his son Andile was obtained for services he had provided, but later corrected this by saying the payment was actually a donation towards his campaign. The remedial actions Mkhwebane recommended included that the speaker of the national assembly demand the publication, within 30 days of receiving the report, of all donations received by Ramaphosa. She also instructed the chief prosecutor to investigate whether Ramaphosa`s campaign had laundered money in its handling of donations.

South Africa's Ramaphosa seeks judicial review of graft watchdog's allegations

South Africa's ethics watchdog on Friday said President Cyril Ramaphosa misled parliament last year over a 500,000 rand donation to his campaign fund from a company facing extensive corruption allegations.

The country's ombudswoman Busisiwe Mkhwebane, said her investigations had shown that the president gave parliament "erroneous" information when he first responded to an opposition question over the October 2017 donation.&nbsp;

The money was given towards his campaign for the presidency of the ruling ANC party but Ramaphosa initially told lawmakers that the payment was to his son Andile for consultancy work for Bosasa, now known as African Global Operations (AGO).

Ramaphosa later admitted that it was a donation towards his campaign to become African National Congress party leader -- a hard-fought battle in which he beat ex-president Jacob Zuma's chosen candidate.

In a report released on Friday, Mkhwebane said, "Although President Ramaphosa may have justified correcting the earlier statement on erroneous or incomplete information at his disposal, he indeed misled parliament".

She said the president "should have allowed himself sufficient time to research a well-informed response," before responding to a question from the main opposition Democratic Alliance leader Mmusi Maimane.

"I, therefore, find that President Ramaphosa's conduct... although ostensibly in good faith, to be inconsistent with his office".

Mkhwebane said the way the funds were moved around from one account to another, before it was deposited into Ramaphosa's campaign account, raised suspicion of money laundering.&nbsp;

She has asked the country's prosecution authority to investigate whether that was the case.

Ramaphosa, who has promised to pay back the campaign funds, has denied wrongdoing.

After taking over from Zuma, Ramaphosa was elected South African President in May, staking his reputation on fighting corruption in a nation smarting from the graft scandal-tainted tenure of Zuma.&nbsp;

South Africa's ethics watchdog on Friday said President Cyril Ramaphosa misled parliament last year over a 500,000 rand donation to his campaign fund from a company facing extensive corruption allegations.

South Africa's ethics watchdog on Friday said President Cyril Ramaphosa misled parliament last year over a 500,000 rand donation to his campaign fund from a company facing extensive corruption allegations. The country's ombudswoman Busisiwe Mkhwebane, said her investigations had shown that the president gave parliament "erroneous" information when he first responded to an opposition question over the October 2017 donation. The money was given towards his campaign for the presidency of the ruling ANC party but Ramaphosa initially told lawmakers that the payment was to his son Andile for consultancy work for Bosasa, now known as African Global Operations (AGO). Ramaphosa later admitted that it was a donation towards his campaign to become African National Congress party leader -- a hard-fought battle in which he beat ex-president Jacob Zuma's chosen candidate. In a report released on Friday, Mkhwebane said, "Although President Ramaphosa may have justified correcting the earlier statement on erroneous or incomplete information at his disposal, he indeed misled parliament". She said the president "should have allowed himself sufficient time to research a well-informed response," before responding to a question from the main opposition Democratic Alliance leader Mmusi Maimane. "I, therefore, find that President Ramaphosa's conduct... although ostensibly in good faith, to be inconsistent with his office". Mkhwebane said the way the funds were moved around from one account to another, before it was deposited into Ramaphosa's campaign account, raised suspicion of money laundering. She has asked the country's prosecution authority to investigate whether that was the case. Ramaphosa, who has promised to pay back the campaign funds, has denied wrongdoing. After taking over from Zuma, Ramaphosa was elected South African President in May, staking his reputation on fighting corruption in a nation smarting from the graft scandal-tainted tenure of Zuma.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa misled parliament: Ethics watchdog

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-zuma-makes-second-court-appearance-on-corruption-charges-143071">Former South African president Jacob Zuma</a> is due Monday to testify at a judicial inquiry where he faces tough questioning over allegations that he oversaw systematic looting of state funds while in power.

Zuma struck a characteristically relaxed tone ahead of his televised appearance, which could last for five days, tweeting a video on Sunday of himself dancing and singing "Zuma must fall" before laughing heartily.

"The commission asked me to come to testify and put forward any information that I might have," he told reporters last week. "We will see how things pan out, but I am going there."

The former president is accused of fostering a culture of corruption during a nine-year reign before he was ousted in 2018 by the ruling ANC party and replaced by Cyril Ramaphosa.

Zuma's supporters and opponents are expected to gather for noisy rallies outside the inquiry commission venue, while 200 members of the public are to attend the hearing on a first-come, first served basis.

Zuma, 77, is not legally required to appear at the inquiry into the so-called "State Capture" scandal, and it is unclear if he will cooperate with any cross-examination.

He has denied all wrongdoing and dismissed the concept of "state capture", while his lawyers have described the inquiry as an attempt to "ambush and humiliate" him.

His request to see questions in advance was denied by the inquiry commission, which invited him to appear "to give his side of the story" after other witnesses gave damning evidence against him.

Led by Judge Raymond Zondo, the probe is investigating a web of deals involving government officials, the wealthy Gupta family, and state-owned companies.

Bribes, cakes and death threats&nbsp;

According to Angelo Agrizzi, one of the inquiry witness, Zuma allegedly accepted a monthly $2,200 bribe delivered in luxury bags from a contracting firm that was trying to evade police investigation.

The money was in theory for his charity foundation.

Agrizzi said his company also organized free parties, bulk alcohol supplies, and birthday cakes to keep favor with Zuma's associates.

Former finance minister Nhlanhla Nene, who was sacked by Zuma in 2015, testified that Zuma pushed policies on nuclear power and aviation that were designed to benefit the Gupta family.

The Gupta brothers are accused of fraudulently profiting from government contracts including energy and transport deals under Zuma.

The family owned a uranium mine, which would have seen profits soar from the nuclear deal, as well as a portfolio of mining, technology, and media companies.

They allegedly held such sway over Zuma that they were able to select some of his cabinet ministers.

Former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas told the inquiry that the Guptas offered him the finance minister's job and even threatened to kill him after he refused to accept a $40 million bribe.

Zuma was forced to set up the inquiry in January 2018, shortly before he left office, after failing in a legal battle to overturn the instructions of the country's ethics ombudsman.

Sitting in central Johannesburg, it has heard from scores of witnesses over 130 days in session since last year.

Zuma has separately been charged with 16 counts of graft linked to an arms deal from before he became president.

The Indian-born Gupta brothers &nbsp;Ajay, Atul, and Rajesh have left South Africa and are now based in Dubai. They also deny any wrong-doing.

Eager to distance himself from the Zuma era, Ramaphosa has declared his presidency as a "new dawn" for the country and described the inquiry as a "very painful process".

Former South African president Jacob Zuma is due Monday to testify at a judicial inquiry where he faces tough questioning over allegations that he oversaw systematic looting of state funds while in power.

Former South African president Jacob Zuma is due Monday to testify at a judicial inquiry where he faces tough questioning over allegations that he oversaw systematic looting of state funds while in power. Zuma struck a characteristically relaxed tone ahead of his televised appearance, which could last for five days, tweeting a video on Sunday of himself dancing and singing "Zuma must fall" before laughing heartily. "The commission asked me to come to testify and put forward any information that I might have," he told reporters last week. "We will see how things pan out, but I am going there." The former president is accused of fostering a culture of corruption during a nine-year reign before he was ousted in 2018 by the ruling ANC party and replaced by Cyril Ramaphosa. Zuma's supporters and opponents are expected to gather for noisy rallies outside the inquiry commission venue, while 200 members of the public are to attend the hearing on a first-come, first served basis. Zuma, 77, is not legally required to appear at the inquiry into the so-called "State Capture" scandal, and it is unclear if he will cooperate with any cross-examination. He has denied all wrongdoing and dismissed the concept of "state capture", while his lawyers have described the inquiry as an attempt to "ambush and humiliate" him. His request to see questions in advance was denied by the inquiry commission, which invited him to appear "to give his side of the story" after other witnesses gave damning evidence against him. Led by Judge Raymond Zondo, the probe is investigating a web of deals involving government officials, the wealthy Gupta family, and state-owned companies. Bribes, cakes and death threats According to Angelo Agrizzi, one of the inquiry witness, Zuma allegedly accepted a monthly $2,200 bribe delivered in luxury bags from a contracting firm that was trying to evade police investigation. The money was in theory for his charity foundation. Agrizzi said his company also organized free parties, bulk alcohol supplies, and birthday cakes to keep favor with Zuma's associates. Former finance minister Nhlanhla Nene, who was sacked by Zuma in 2015, testified that Zuma pushed policies on nuclear power and aviation that were designed to benefit the Gupta family. The Gupta brothers are accused of fraudulently profiting from government contracts including energy and transport deals under Zuma. The family owned a uranium mine, which would have seen profits soar from the nuclear deal, as well as a portfolio of mining, technology, and media companies. They allegedly held such sway over Zuma that they were able to select some of his cabinet ministers. Former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas told the inquiry that the Guptas offered him the finance minister's job and even threatened to kill him after he refused to accept a $40 million bribe. Zuma was forced to set up the inquiry in January 2018, shortly before he left office, after failing in a legal battle to overturn the instructions of the country's ethics ombudsman. Sitting in central Johannesburg, it has heard from scores of witnesses over 130 days in session since last year. Zuma has separately been charged with 16 counts of graft linked to an arms deal from before he became president. The Indian-born Gupta brothers Ajay, Atul, and Rajesh have left South Africa and are now based in Dubai. They also deny any wrong-doing. Eager to distance himself from the Zuma era, Ramaphosa has declared his presidency as a "new dawn" for the country and described the inquiry as a "very painful process".

South Africa's Jacob Zuma to testify in graft inquiry

Youth unemployment in South Africa has become a "national crisis", <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-the-five-labours-of-cyril-ramaphosa-221447">President Cyril Ramaphosa</a> said on Sunday at an event commemorating youth activism during the apartheid era.

Unemployment in Africa's most advanced economy has remained stubbornly high since white minority rule ended 25 years ago, and creating jobs is a major challenge for Ramaphosa as he aims to reignite an underperforming economy.

Unemployment inched up to 27.6% in the first quarter, official data showed in May, underscoring the task faced by Ramaphosa after his ANC party won re-election last month.

An expanded category of unemployment, including people who have stopped looking for work, rose to 38% in the first quarter from 37.0% in the previous three-month period.

"We are very much alive to the fact that youth unemployment is indeed a national crisis," Ramaphosa told an audience of mainly young people and students on National Youth Day.

The day honours scores of students killed during the 1976 Soweto uprising that helped focus global attention on the brutality of apartheid.

According to government agency Stats SA, the burden of unemployment is concentrated among the 15-34 age group who account for almost two-thirds of the jobless. Around four out of 10 young people do not have a job.

Youth unemployment in South Africa has become a "national crisis", President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday at an event commemorating youth activism during the apartheid era.

Youth unemployment in South Africa has become a "national crisis", President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday at an event commemorating youth activism during the apartheid era. Unemployment in Africa's most advanced economy has remained stubbornly high since white minority rule ended 25 years ago, and creating jobs is a major challenge for Ramaphosa as he aims to reignite an underperforming economy. Unemployment inched up to 27.6% in the first quarter, official data showed in May, underscoring the task faced by Ramaphosa after his ANC party won re-election last month. An expanded category of unemployment, including people who have stopped looking for work, rose to 38% in the first quarter from 37.0% in the previous three-month period. "We are very much alive to the fact that youth unemployment is indeed a national crisis," Ramaphosa told an audience of mainly young people and students on National Youth Day. The day honours scores of students killed during the 1976 Soweto uprising that helped focus global attention on the brutality of apartheid. According to government agency Stats SA, the burden of unemployment is concentrated among the 15-34 age group who account for almost two-thirds of the jobless. Around four out of 10 young people do not have a job.

South Africa youth unemployment a 'national crisis': President Cyril Ramaphosa

Trade unionist-turned-businessman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-president-cyril-ramaphosa-vows-to-speed-reforms-after-election-win-219008">Cyril Ramaphosa</a> was sworn in as South Africa's president on Saturday, vowing to create jobs and tackle deep-rooted corruption that has strangled economic growth.

Ramaphosa, who becomes the country's fourth democratically elected president since the end of apartheid, took the presidential oath before a crowd of about 32,000 people in a rugby stadium in the capital, Pretoria.

"Today our nation enters a new era of hope and renewal," said Ramaphosa, 66, wearing a dark suit and flanked by foreign leaders including Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

"Let us forge a compact for growth and economic opportunities, for productive land and wider opportunities ... A compact of an efficient, capable and ethical state. A state that is free from corruption," said Ramaphosa, a former anti-apartheid activist and trade union leader who has wide-ranging business interests.

Ramaphosa's African National Congress (ANC) clinched a 57.5% majority in a general election earlier in May, down from 62% in 2014 as voters turned against the ruling party due to revelations about government corruption and record unemployment.

Ramaphosa narrowly won the ANC leadership race in late 2017 and replaced scandal-plagued predecessor Jacob Zuma as state president in February 2018, a year before the latter's term was due to expire.

Since then he has struggled to mend factions in the party opposed to his reform plans, especially at cash-strapped state power supplier Eskom. His promises to punish party members accused of corruption have also stuttered.

The challenges facing Ramaphosa were highlighted on Friday by the resignation of Eskom's chief executive, who quit only a year since he was appointed to stabilise the utility and keep the lights on after nationwide blackouts.

Also on Friday, S&amp;P Global Ratings kept South Africa's credit rating unchanged one notch below investment grade.

The economy is set for a first-quarter contraction after mining and manufacturing weakened, prompting the central bank to cut its 2019 growth forecast to 1%, well below the rate of at least 3% needed to bring down debt, budget deficits and joblessness.

"The challenges our country faces are huge and are real but they are not insurmountable. They can be solved and I stand here to say they are going to be solved," Ramaphosa said in his speech on Saturday.

Many in the crowd at Pretoria's packed Loftus stadium were optimistic.

"I love my president Cyril Ramaphosa. I know that as long as we have him here he is going to give us jobs and change many things," said Patience Shabangu, 45, a volunteer at a local clinic.

Political analysts say a key test of Ramaphosa's ability to deliver reforms will be his announcement of the new cabinet, which is expected to take place next week.

"The speech was an honest and brutal reflection of South Africa's recent problems. But it was also optimistic," said Daniel Silke, director of the Political Futures Consultancy.

"He will be judged on a very high bar and the next step is the cabinet. If it contains any semblance of the dead wood from the past he will be severely critiqued," Silke added.

Trade unionist-turned-businessman Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in as South Africa's president on Saturday, vowing to create jobs and tackle deep-rooted corruption that has strangled economic growth.

Trade unionist-turned-businessman Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in as South Africa's president on Saturday, vowing to create jobs and tackle deep-rooted corruption that has strangled economic growth. Ramaphosa, who becomes the country's fourth democratically elected president since the end of apartheid, took the presidential oath before a crowd of about 32,000 people in a rugby stadium in the capital, Pretoria. "Today our nation enters a new era of hope and renewal," said Ramaphosa, 66, wearing a dark suit and flanked by foreign leaders including Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang. "Let us forge a compact for growth and economic opportunities, for productive land and wider opportunities ... A compact of an efficient, capable and ethical state. A state that is free from corruption," said Ramaphosa, a former anti-apartheid activist and trade union leader who has wide-ranging business interests. Ramaphosa's African National Congress (ANC) clinched a 57.5% majority in a general election earlier in May, down from 62% in 2014 as voters turned against the ruling party due to revelations about government corruption and record unemployment. Ramaphosa narrowly won the ANC leadership race in late 2017 and replaced scandal-plagued predecessor Jacob Zuma as state president in February 2018, a year before the latter's term was due to expire. Since then he has struggled to mend factions in the party opposed to his reform plans, especially at cash-strapped state power supplier Eskom. His promises to punish party members accused of corruption have also stuttered. The challenges facing Ramaphosa were highlighted on Friday by the resignation of Eskom's chief executive, who quit only a year since he was appointed to stabilise the utility and keep the lights on after nationwide blackouts. Also on Friday, S&P Global Ratings kept South Africa's credit rating unchanged one notch below investment grade. The economy is set for a first-quarter contraction after mining and manufacturing weakened, prompting the central bank to cut its 2019 growth forecast to 1%, well below the rate of at least 3% needed to bring down debt, budget deficits and joblessness. "The challenges our country faces are huge and are real but they are not insurmountable. They can be solved and I stand here to say they are going to be solved," Ramaphosa said in his speech on Saturday. Many in the crowd at Pretoria's packed Loftus stadium were optimistic. "I love my president Cyril Ramaphosa. I know that as long as we have him here he is going to give us jobs and change many things," said Patience Shabangu, 45, a volunteer at a local clinic. Political analysts say a key test of Ramaphosa's ability to deliver reforms will be his announcement of the new cabinet, which is expected to take place next week. "The speech was an honest and brutal reflection of South Africa's recent problems. But it was also optimistic," said Daniel Silke, director of the Political Futures Consultancy. "He will be judged on a very high bar and the next step is the cabinet. If it contains any semblance of the dead wood from the past he will be severely critiqued," Silke added.

Promising jobs and justice, Ramaphosa sworn in as South Africa's president

Cyril Ramaphosa takes the oath of office on Saturday as president of South Africa, facing a brew of expectations and scepticism after vowing to reform the country and revive its economy.

Foreign heads of state will be among 36,000 people expected to witness the ceremony at a rugby stadium in the capital Pretoria.

The 66-year-old leader was unanimously elected by parliament after his African National Congress (ANC) won legislative elections on May 8, winning 230 of the 400 seats.

The victory was earned with 57.5 per cent of the vote -- the party's lowest share of the ballot since it overturned apartheid 25 years ago.

Ramaphosa is a trade unionist who played a prominent part in the struggle to end white-minority rule before becoming a successful businessman.

His inauguration speech will be scrutinised for clues as to how he plans to tackle the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-the-five-labours-of-cyril-ramaphosa-221447"> country's many problems</a>.

They range from a sickly economy in which more than a quarter of the workforce is jobless to entrenched crime and corruption and land ownership that remains overwhelmingly in the hands of whites.

Many solutions will require him to inch his way across the high wire, balancing leftwing calls for radical change with demands by investors for caution.

In his acceptance speech to lawmakers on Wednesday, Ramaphosa vowed his government was all "about change, and you are going to see the change."

"We have been given this responsibility on an overriding basis to revive our economy, to create jobs, to not only bring hope to the masses of our people, to actualise that hope and make sure that indeed their aspirations are met."

Cabinet test

Ramaphosa's first test as he starts his new five-year term will be choosing a cabinet -- a task beset by rival factions within the ANC.&nbsp;

He is expected to name his new cabinet within days after his inauguration, but his choice of vice president hangs in the balance after his deputy David Mabuza said Wednesday he would defer taking his seat as a lawmaker.

An ANC integrity commission report has alleged Mabuza -- the party's No. 2 -- "prejudiced the integrity of the ANC and brought the organisation into disrepute".

Ramaphosa first took power last year when the ANC forced Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years in office, and vowed to root out corruption.

"The clean-up is ongoing, the cabinet will be broadly clean and meet some notional standard or threshold the market is looking for," predicted Peter Attard Montalto of the British-based advisory service Intellidex.

Stadium ceremony

Breaking with tradition Ramaphosa's swearing-in ceremony has been moved from the amphitheatre of the Union Buildings -- the seat of government, where Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as the country's first black president in 1994.

All other leaders after Mandela have taken their oaths at the Union Buildings, whose grounds can accommodate only up to 4,500 people.

But this year the event has been moved to the 52,000-seater Loftus Versfeld rugby stadium, a move organisers said is more inclusive and will allow more people to witness the event.

More than 2,500 police are being deployed for security, while a battalion of soldiers will be inside the stadium to perform ceremonial parades.

The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) has castigated the government for what it called "wasteful" expenditure of 120 million rand ($8.3 million) for the ceremony.

"It is no secret that the South African economy is in dire straits," said a senior DA lawmaker, John Steenhuisen.&nbsp;

Watch: South Africa President Ramaphosa celebrates election victory

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Cyril Ramaphosa takes the oath of office on Saturday as president of South Africa, facing a brew of expectations and scepticism after vowing to reform the country and revive its economy.

Cyril Ramaphosa takes the oath of office on Saturday as president of South Africa, facing a brew of expectations and scepticism after vowing to reform the country and revive its economy. Foreign heads of state will be among 36,000 people expected to witness the ceremony at a rugby stadium in the capital Pretoria. The 66-year-old leader was unanimously elected by parliament after his African National Congress (ANC) won legislative elections on May 8, winning 230 of the 400 seats. The victory was earned with 57.5 per cent of the vote -- the party's lowest share of the ballot since it overturned apartheid 25 years ago. Ramaphosa is a trade unionist who played a prominent part in the struggle to end white-minority rule before becoming a successful businessman. His inauguration speech will be scrutinised for clues as to how he plans to tackle the country's many problems. They range from a sickly economy in which more than a quarter of the workforce is jobless to entrenched crime and corruption and land ownership that remains overwhelmingly in the hands of whites. Many solutions will require him to inch his way across the high wire, balancing leftwing calls for radical change with demands by investors for caution. In his acceptance speech to lawmakers on Wednesday, Ramaphosa vowed his government was all "about change, and you are going to see the change." "We have been given this responsibility on an overriding basis to revive our economy, to create jobs, to not only bring hope to the masses of our people, to actualise that hope and make sure that indeed their aspirations are met." Cabinet test Ramaphosa's first test as he starts his new five-year term will be choosing a cabinet -- a task beset by rival factions within the ANC. He is expected to name his new cabinet within days after his inauguration, but his choice of vice president hangs in the balance after his deputy David Mabuza said Wednesday he would defer taking his seat as a lawmaker. An ANC integrity commission report has alleged Mabuza -- the party's No. 2 -- "prejudiced the integrity of the ANC and brought the organisation into disrepute". Ramaphosa first took power last year when the ANC forced Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years in office, and vowed to root out corruption. "The clean-up is ongoing, the cabinet will be broadly clean and meet some notional standard or threshold the market is looking for," predicted Peter Attard Montalto of the British-based advisory service Intellidex. Stadium ceremony Breaking with tradition Ramaphosa's swearing-in ceremony has been moved from the amphitheatre of the Union Buildings -- the seat of government, where Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as the country's first black president in 1994. All other leaders after Mandela have taken their oaths at the Union Buildings, whose grounds can accommodate only up to 4,500 people. But this year the event has been moved to the 52,000-seater Loftus Versfeld rugby stadium, a move organisers said is more inclusive and will allow more people to witness the event. More than 2,500 police are being deployed for security, while a battalion of soldiers will be inside the stadium to perform ceremonial parades. The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) has castigated the government for what it called "wasteful" expenditure of 120 million rand ($8.3 million) for the ceremony. "It is no secret that the South African economy is in dire straits," said a senior DA lawmaker, John Steenhuisen. Watch: South Africa President Ramaphosa celebrates election victory ×

Cyril Ramaphosa to be sworn in as president of South Africa today

Newly-elected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-president-cyril-ramaphosa-vows-to-speed-reforms-after-election-win-219008">South African President Cyril Ramaphosa </a>faces herculean tasks after he gets down to work after Saturday's inauguration.

They include:

Fixing the economy&nbsp;

South Africa has the most advanced infrastructure in the continent, but its commodities-dependent economy has been in a slump for a decade.&nbsp;

It grew by an anaemic 0.8 per cent last year and slipped into a brief recession during the third quarter of 2018. It is projected by the World Bank to expand by 1.3 per cent this year.

Unemployment is running at 27.6 per cent, but among the 20.3 million South Africans aged between 15-34 reaches 55.2 per cent.

In 2017, two of the world's leading ratings agencies S&amp;P Global and Fitch downgraded the country to sub-investment levels.

Ramaphosa, who enjoys support from the business community, has prioritised reform and economic revival. But he faces resistance from within his own party.

Addressing inequalities&nbsp;

With a population of 56.7 million people (2017), the country still has "one of the highest inequality rates in the world," the World Bank says.

The gulf between richest and poorest has widened since the end of apartheid 25 years ago, and skin colour still plays a defining role in job hiring.

Despite the emergence of a black middle class, 20 per cent of black households lives in extreme poverty, against 2.9 per cent for white households, according to the South African Institute of Race Relations.

Between 2011 and 2015, three million more South Africans fell into poverty, according to a World Bank estimate.

Tackling graft&nbsp;

One of the biggest sources of public acrimony is over endemic corruption.

Graft scandals last year forced out Ramaphosa's predecessor, Jacob Zuma, and taint the moral stature of Nelson's Mandela's African National Congress (ANC).

Alleged corruption under Zuma -- known as "state capture" -- saw millions of dollars siphoned off through government and state agencies awarding fraudulent contracts to favoured companies in return for bribes.

Zuma himself is facing trial for alleged corruption relating to a multi-billion-dollar arms deal in the 1990s.

Ramaphosa in February announced he would set up a special tribunal of seven senior judges for "fast-tracking" recovery of proceeds from corruption cases.

&nbsp;Fighting crime&nbsp;

South Africa has a notorious reputation for crime. Last year, 19,000 people were murdered -- 52 per day, according to official figures.

Women are especially vulnerable. Around 100 rapes are recorded each day and a woman dies from domestic violence roughly every eight hours.

The country's crisis of gender-based violence gained worldwide prominence in March after pop-star Babes Wodumo broadcast live images of her apparently being assaulted by her lover.

Violence and theft have spawned a lucrative home-security industry.

Wealthy people live in fortified homes with high walls topped with electrical wires, CCTV monitoring and armed guards.

&nbsp;Land reform&nbsp;

Ramaphosa faces a high-wire act in pushing ahead with his vow to speed up reforms of land, which remains overwhelmingly in the hands of the white minority.

He has to balance pressure from the ANC's left and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) for expropriation with the need to avoid Zimbabwean-style evictions that would be economically ruinous.

"The land reform process is something we should never fear. It is going to be done in terms of the constitution," he told farmers in April.

South Africa's post-apartheid constitution prohibits the "arbitrary deprivation of property" and limits expropriation to cases in the public interest, for which landholders should be given "just and equitable compensation."

"Ramaphosa will have to make some very hard decisions on this matter," political analyst Daniel Silke says.

"He is going to have to choose whether he wants to be investor-friendly or whether he wants the interests of his own political party... to win out."

Newly-elected South African President Cyril Ramaphosa faces herculean tasks after he gets down to work after Saturday's inauguration. They include: Fixing the economy South Africa has the most advanced infrastructure in the continent, but its commodities-dependent economy has been in a slump for a decade.

Newly-elected South African President Cyril Ramaphosa faces herculean tasks after he gets down to work after Saturday's inauguration. They include: Fixing the economy South Africa has the most advanced infrastructure in the continent, but its commodities-dependent economy has been in a slump for a decade. It grew by an anaemic 0.8 per cent last year and slipped into a brief recession during the third quarter of 2018. It is projected by the World Bank to expand by 1.3 per cent this year. Unemployment is running at 27.6 per cent, but among the 20.3 million South Africans aged between 15-34 reaches 55.2 per cent. In 2017, two of the world's leading ratings agencies S&P Global and Fitch downgraded the country to sub-investment levels. Ramaphosa, who enjoys support from the business community, has prioritised reform and economic revival. But he faces resistance from within his own party. Addressing inequalities With a population of 56.7 million people (2017), the country still has "one of the highest inequality rates in the world," the World Bank says. The gulf between richest and poorest has widened since the end of apartheid 25 years ago, and skin colour still plays a defining role in job hiring. Despite the emergence of a black middle class, 20 per cent of black households lives in extreme poverty, against 2.9 per cent for white households, according to the South African Institute of Race Relations. Between 2011 and 2015, three million more South Africans fell into poverty, according to a World Bank estimate. Tackling graft One of the biggest sources of public acrimony is over endemic corruption. Graft scandals last year forced out Ramaphosa's predecessor, Jacob Zuma, and taint the moral stature of Nelson's Mandela's African National Congress (ANC). Alleged corruption under Zuma -- known as "state capture" -- saw millions of dollars siphoned off through government and state agencies awarding fraudulent contracts to favoured companies in return for bribes. Zuma himself is facing trial for alleged corruption relating to a multi-billion-dollar arms deal in the 1990s. Ramaphosa in February announced he would set up a special tribunal of seven senior judges for "fast-tracking" recovery of proceeds from corruption cases. Fighting crime South Africa has a notorious reputation for crime. Last year, 19,000 people were murdered -- 52 per day, according to official figures. Women are especially vulnerable. Around 100 rapes are recorded each day and a woman dies from domestic violence roughly every eight hours. The country's crisis of gender-based violence gained worldwide prominence in March after pop-star Babes Wodumo broadcast live images of her apparently being assaulted by her lover. Violence and theft have spawned a lucrative home-security industry. Wealthy people live in fortified homes with high walls topped with electrical wires, CCTV monitoring and armed guards. Land reform Ramaphosa faces a high-wire act in pushing ahead with his vow to speed up reforms of land, which remains overwhelmingly in the hands of the white minority. He has to balance pressure from the ANC's left and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) for expropriation with the need to avoid Zimbabwean-style evictions that would be economically ruinous. "The land reform process is something we should never fear. It is going to be done in terms of the constitution," he told farmers in April. South Africa's post-apartheid constitution prohibits the "arbitrary deprivation of property" and limits expropriation to cases in the public interest, for which landholders should be given "just and equitable compensation." "Ramaphosa will have to make some very hard decisions on this matter," political analyst Daniel Silke says. "He is going to have to choose whether he wants to be investor-friendly or whether he wants the interests of his own political party... to win out."

South Africa: The five labours of Cyril Ramaphosa

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-election-ramaphosa-celebrates-election-victory-218237&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiTn-P01Z3iAhWLqo8KHdO8DagQFjAHegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1q4EzoSHJnSn3jVnL8Z0Rx">South African President Cyril Ramaphosa</a> pledged Wednesday to use his<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-greets-south-african-president-ramaphosa-on-being-re-elected-218716&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiTn-P01Z3iAhWLqo8KHdO8DagQFjAEegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1gg4mkF_WdDv_ywtHSiZ50"> victory in last week's election</a> to impose faster reforms to boost the economy and turn around Eskom, the state's ailing power company.

Ramaphosa spoke at a gathering of chief executives hosted by the Goldman Sachs investment bank in Johannesburg, signalling his pro-business stance after he took over from scandal-tainted Jacob Zuma last year.

"We identified a number of reform issues that we needed to address, we are now going to do that with greater speed," Ramaphosa said after the ruling<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-ramaphosas-economic-reforms-in-focus-as-anc-adjusts-to-smaller-majority-218386&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiTn-P01Z3iAhWLqo8KHdO8DagQFjAJegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3yCOZHz5lRImdir6E2CCmS"> ANC party won</a> the May 8 election with its thinnest majority since the end of apartheid.

"We are going to ensure that the certainty that investors want to see is there," the president&nbsp;said.

"We are going to continue with the reforms of our state-owned enterprises because a number of them have held us back", he added.

Ramaphosa said corruption had "set itself into Eskom" and that proper management processes had been "completely destroyed" at the company, which is teetering on the edge of collapse with debts of $30 billion.

"We are going to proceed to clean it up," he vowed, promoting his plan to restructure the company and tackle its vast debts.

"In the end, Eskom is too big to fail. The plan is in place, it is credible... If Eskom fails, this economy fails, this country also fails, so we are not going to allow that",&nbsp;Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa also said South Africa's 27 per cent unemployment rate "keeps me awake at night," adding,&nbsp;"The key mandate I have as president is to make sure that our focus is on jobs."

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged Wednesday to use his victory in last week's election to impose faster reforms to boost the economy and turn around Eskom, the state's ailing power company.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged Wednesday to use his victory in last week's election to impose faster reforms to boost the economy and turn around Eskom, the state's ailing power company. Ramaphosa spoke at a gathering of chief executives hosted by the Goldman Sachs investment bank in Johannesburg, signalling his pro-business stance after he took over from scandal-tainted Jacob Zuma last year. "We identified a number of reform issues that we needed to address, we are now going to do that with greater speed," Ramaphosa said after the ruling ANC party won the May 8 election with its thinnest majority since the end of apartheid. "We are going to ensure that the certainty that investors want to see is there," the president said. "We are going to continue with the reforms of our state-owned enterprises because a number of them have held us back", he added. Ramaphosa said corruption had "set itself into Eskom" and that proper management processes had been "completely destroyed" at the company, which is teetering on the edge of collapse with debts of $30 billion. "We are going to proceed to clean it up," he vowed, promoting his plan to restructure the company and tackle its vast debts. "In the end, Eskom is too big to fail. The plan is in place, it is credible... If Eskom fails, this economy fails, this country also fails, so we are not going to allow that", Ramaphosa said. Ramaphosa also said South Africa's 27 per cent unemployment rate "keeps me awake at night," adding, "The key mandate I have as president is to make sure that our focus is on jobs."

South African president Cyril Ramaphosa vows to speed reforms after election win

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/pm-modi-challenges-opposition-to-prove-if-he-amassed-assets-kept-money-in-foreign-bank-218697">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday congratulated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyril-ramaphosas-anc-win-closely-watched-south-africa-poll-with-absolute-majority-217627">South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on being&nbsp;re-elected</a>, and also said that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow deeper and stronger.

"Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President @CyrilRamaphosa on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger," Modi tweeted.

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Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CyrilRamaphosa</a> on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1128239437836455937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ramaphosa's ruling ANC won re-election last week with an absolute majority in parliament, results showed, but with diminished support, complicating economic revival and anti-corruption efforts.

The African National Congress (ANC) held a comfortable lead with 57.73 per cent after 95 per cent of voting districts were officially tallied following Wednesday's vote.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-election-ramaphosa-celebrates-election-victory-218237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

President Ramaphosa, 66, took over last year when the ANC forced then-president Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years dominated by corruption allegations and economic decline.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on being re-elected, and also said that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow deeper and stronger.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on being re-elected, and also said that the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow deeper and stronger. "Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President @CyrilRamaphosa on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger," Modi tweeted. Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to President @CyrilRamaphosa on his re-election. India and South Africa are close partners with many shared values and common interests. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger. — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 14, 2019 × Ramaphosa's ruling ANC won re-election last week with an absolute majority in parliament, results showed, but with diminished support, complicating economic revival and anti-corruption efforts. The African National Congress (ANC) held a comfortable lead with 57.73 per cent after 95 per cent of voting districts were officially tallied following Wednesday's vote. President Ramaphosa, 66, took over last year when the ANC forced then-president Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years dominated by corruption allegations and economic decline.

PM Modi congratulates South African President Ramaphosa on being re-elected

Thousands of supporters of South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) took to the streets of downtown Johannesburg on Sunday to celebrate victory in last week's election despite a lower share of the vote.

The ANC won 57.5% of the parliamentary vote and retained power in eight of nine provinces in President Cyril Ramaphosa's first poll test since taking power in February 2018.

The result was the ANC's worst performance in a parliamentary vote since the end of white minority rule in 1994 when it swept to power under Nelson Mandela.

But it was at least an improvement on its vote share in local government elections in 2016.

To supporters of Ramaphosa, the victory was an endorsement of his anti-graft agenda after replacing Jacob Zuma.

"Ramaphosa has done the right thing by targeting corruption. It helped us win the election," said Tlaleng Radebe, 45, an ANC member from Soweto township on the outskirts of Johannesburg.

Another ANC member, Themba Shabalala, 39, said he wanted to see Ramaphosa, a union leader turned business tycoon, rid the country of the "scourge of unemployment."

Around 27 per cent of South Africans do not have jobs, according to one definition of unemployment.

Ramaphosa promises growth

Radebe and Shabalala were part of a crowd of several thousand wearing the ANC colours of black, green and gold outside the party's headquarters, Luthuli House.

Music blared from speakers and people waved party flags before Ramaphosa and other officials addressed them.

"This election was a most decisive election for us. We have learned our lessons, we have heard the people of South Africa," Ramaphosa, 66, told the crowd to cheers.

"We are going to make sure we inject growth into our economy, we are going to invite investors to come and invest, we are going to make sure we give the young people of our country great opportunities," he added.

Ramaphosa's first full term as president should start later this month after his nomination by ANC lawmakers in the new parliament.

He replaced Zuma as ANC leader in December 2017, after a decade in which the party's image was tarnished by corruption scandals and weak economic growth. He became head of state after persuading senior ANC officials to instruct Zuma to resign before Zuma's presidential term was due to end.

Some analysts think last week's election result will leave Ramaphosa short of ammunition to battle party rivals who oppose his reforms to tackle corruption and galvanise the economy.

Others say he did well to win a narrow majority in Gauteng province, the country's economic hub where Johannesburg is located and where the ANC was under pressure.

"Gauteng was our biggest challenge," Ramaphosa said. "It does not matter how you get there, as long as you get there."

Acknowledging that turnout at the election was lower than previous votes at around 65 per cent, he urged more people to cast ballots next time.

The ANC achieved its best parliamentary election result in 2004 under former president Thabo Mbeki, when it won more than 69% of the vote.

Thousands of supporters of South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) took to the streets of downtown Johannesburg on Sunday to celebrate victory in last week's election despite a lower share of the vote.

Thousands of supporters of South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) took to the streets of downtown Johannesburg on Sunday to celebrate victory in last week's election despite a lower share of the vote. The ANC won 57.5% of the parliamentary vote and retained power in eight of nine provinces in President Cyril Ramaphosa's first poll test since taking power in February 2018. The result was the ANC's worst performance in a parliamentary vote since the end of white minority rule in 1994 when it swept to power under Nelson Mandela. But it was at least an improvement on its vote share in local government elections in 2016. To supporters of Ramaphosa, the victory was an endorsement of his anti-graft agenda after replacing Jacob Zuma. "Ramaphosa has done the right thing by targeting corruption. It helped us win the election," said Tlaleng Radebe, 45, an ANC member from Soweto township on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Another ANC member, Themba Shabalala, 39, said he wanted to see Ramaphosa, a union leader turned business tycoon, rid the country of the "scourge of unemployment." Around 27 per cent of South Africans do not have jobs, according to one definition of unemployment. Ramaphosa promises growth Radebe and Shabalala were part of a crowd of several thousand wearing the ANC colours of black, green and gold outside the party's headquarters, Luthuli House. Music blared from speakers and people waved party flags before Ramaphosa and other officials addressed them. "This election was a most decisive election for us. We have learned our lessons, we have heard the people of South Africa," Ramaphosa, 66, told the crowd to cheers. "We are going to make sure we inject growth into our economy, we are going to invite investors to come and invest, we are going to make sure we give the young people of our country great opportunities," he added. Ramaphosa's first full term as president should start later this month after his nomination by ANC lawmakers in the new parliament. He replaced Zuma as ANC leader in December 2017, after a decade in which the party's image was tarnished by corruption scandals and weak economic growth. He became head of state after persuading senior ANC officials to instruct Zuma to resign before Zuma's presidential term was due to end. Some analysts think last week's election result will leave Ramaphosa short of ammunition to battle party rivals who oppose his reforms to tackle corruption and galvanise the economy. Others say he did well to win a narrow majority in Gauteng province, the country's economic hub where Johannesburg is located and where the ANC was under pressure. "Gauteng was our biggest challenge," Ramaphosa said. "It does not matter how you get there, as long as you get there." Acknowledging that turnout at the election was lower than previous votes at around 65 per cent, he urged more people to cast ballots next time. The ANC achieved its best parliamentary election result in 2004 under former president Thabo Mbeki, when it won more than 69% of the vote.

South Africa's ANC celebrates election win with street party

Boosting South African growth and overhauling bloated power firm Eskom are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-anc-celebrates-election-win-with-street-party-218233">post-election priorities for the African National Congress</a>, but a reduced majority may force <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyril-ramaphosas-anc-win-closely-watched-south-africa-poll-with-absolute-majority-217627">President Cyril Ramaphosa</a> to compromise on those and other economic reforms.

Ramaphosa took office in February 2018 with a pledge to revive a sclerotic economy and attract foreign investors.

But as he prepares for his first full five-year term after the ANC last week saw its share of the national election vote fall below 60% for the first time, the country's structural problems remain acute.

The rand hit a more than two-week high on Friday when the ANC's parliamentary majority became unassailable, but on Monday the currency retreated and government bond yields rose as outside factors - notably the impact on emerging markets of the US-China trade war - gave investors pause.

"It now all hinges on (Ramaphosa) quickly presenting a political agenda and initiating the urgently required reforms once he has formed a government," Commerzbank analysts Ulrich Leuchtmann and Elisabeth Andreae wrote in a note on Monday.

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"...The country's problems are complex and the new government is facing a Herculean task."

As well as speeding up reforms of Eskom and other state-owned entities, Ramaphosa's long to-do list following his inauguration on May 25 will include generating jobs, acting against entrenched corruption in and outside the ANC and resolving policy uncertainty in the mining sector.

On Sunday, he promised a new approach.

"We are going to do things differently, we are going to do things effectively. We are going to make sure we inject growth ... we are going to invite investors," he told ANC supporters at a celebration rally.

Bloated cabinet

But facing party rivals who oppose his reforms, Ramaphosa has struggled to do exactly that since he succeeded scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma last year.

An early barometer of his ability to push through change more efficiently this time will be whether he manages to trim a cabinet comprising more than 30 ministers and deputies, analysts said.

His sympathisers in the ANC are hopeful.

"The cabinet is bloated, and that is not correct when we live in the harshest conditions in the economy. We will cut down the size of the cabinet, that will definitely happen," Fikile Mbalula, a member of the ANC executive, said on Friday.

The economy grew an estimated 0.8 per cent in 2018 after recovering from recession. Growth is forecast at 1.5 per cent this year, and one factor in hitting that target will be how the government manages Eskom's restructuring.

The utility faces generation capacity constraints and South Africa has been plagued by power cuts in the past year, undermining broader efforts to kick-start growth.

Also battling to preserve Pretoria's last investment-grade credit rating, Ramaphosa has pledged to restructure Eskom with a 23 billion rand ($1.62 billion) a year bailout over the next three years.

"Reforming Eskom will definitely gain momentum. That is something which government is serious about," Enoch Godongwana, head of the ANC's economic transformation sub-committee, said on Friday.

Eskom is one of the firms caught up in what has been termed "state capture" - widespread corruption involving billions of rand in government contracts.

Standard Chartered chief Africa economist Razia Khan said holding accountable those implicated in state graft was one of the most pressing issues for Ramaphosa.

"Although not an economic policy issue, action on state capture might provide the much-needed lift to investor and consumer confidence," she said.

Outside influences

Foreign investor interest in South Africa has waned since Ramaphosa took office, with non-domestic ownership of government bonds dipping to 39% at end-April 2019 from a peak of nearly 43% in March 2018.

Godongwana said the ANC was putting "confidence-building measures" in place, but warned against setting expectations too high.

"Economic growth is not something that you can declare. There are lots of puzzles. There is the global aspect which you don't have control over and investment decisions by third parties," he said.

But as well as luring back foreign investors, Ramaphosa will also need to strike a balance between stimulating the economy and quelling simmering discontent, notably via land reform, among the black majority over lingering wealth disparities.

The latter has arguably become more acute with the strong election showing of the far-left EFF party, which champions the rights of landless blacks. It won 44 seats and saw its share of the vote rise to 10.8%.

"High inequality and the rise of the EFF could prepare the ground for more populist economic policies," said rating agency Fitch said.

It acknowledged tensions between the government objectives of addressing inequality and accelerating GDP, but said it expected no significant negative impact from this on growth or budget metrics.

Sergey Dergachev, a senior portfolio manager at Germany-based Union Investment, meanwhile remains "underweight" South Africa.

"The underlying structural problems are still tough to tackle," he said. "...Even with a new mandate, it'll be very difficult to get South Africa back on a growth trend again."

Boosting South African growth and overhauling bloated power firm Eskom are post-election priorities for the African National Congress, but a reduced majority may force President Cyril Ramaphosa to compromise on those and other economic reforms.

Boosting South African growth and overhauling bloated power firm Eskom are post-election priorities for the African National Congress, but a reduced majority may force President Cyril Ramaphosa to compromise on those and other economic reforms. Ramaphosa took office in February 2018 with a pledge to revive a sclerotic economy and attract foreign investors. But as he prepares for his first full five-year term after the ANC last week saw its share of the national election vote fall below 60% for the first time, the country's structural problems remain acute. The rand hit a more than two-week high on Friday when the ANC's parliamentary majority became unassailable, but on Monday the currency retreated and government bond yields rose as outside factors - notably the impact on emerging markets of the US-China trade war - gave investors pause. "It now all hinges on (Ramaphosa) quickly presenting a political agenda and initiating the urgently required reforms once he has formed a government," Commerzbank analysts Ulrich Leuchtmann and Elisabeth Andreae wrote in a note on Monday. "...The country's problems are complex and the new government is facing a Herculean task." As well as speeding up reforms of Eskom and other state-owned entities, Ramaphosa's long to-do list following his inauguration on May 25 will include generating jobs, acting against entrenched corruption in and outside the ANC and resolving policy uncertainty in the mining sector. On Sunday, he promised a new approach. "We are going to do things differently, we are going to do things effectively. We are going to make sure we inject growth ... we are going to invite investors," he told ANC supporters at a celebration rally. Bloated cabinet But facing party rivals who oppose his reforms, Ramaphosa has struggled to do exactly that since he succeeded scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma last year. An early barometer of his ability to push through change more efficiently this time will be whether he manages to trim a cabinet comprising more than 30 ministers and deputies, analysts said. His sympathisers in the ANC are hopeful. "The cabinet is bloated, and that is not correct when we live in the harshest conditions in the economy. We will cut down the size of the cabinet, that will definitely happen," Fikile Mbalula, a member of the ANC executive, said on Friday. The economy grew an estimated 0.8 per cent in 2018 after recovering from recession. Growth is forecast at 1.5 per cent this year, and one factor in hitting that target will be how the government manages Eskom's restructuring. The utility faces generation capacity constraints and South Africa has been plagued by power cuts in the past year, undermining broader efforts to kick-start growth. Also battling to preserve Pretoria's last investment-grade credit rating, Ramaphosa has pledged to restructure Eskom with a 23 billion rand ($1.62 billion) a year bailout over the next three years. "Reforming Eskom will definitely gain momentum. That is something which government is serious about," Enoch Godongwana, head of the ANC's economic transformation sub-committee, said on Friday. Eskom is one of the firms caught up in what has been termed "state capture" - widespread corruption involving billions of rand in government contracts. Standard Chartered chief Africa economist Razia Khan said holding accountable those implicated in state graft was one of the most pressing issues for Ramaphosa. "Although not an economic policy issue, action on state capture might provide the much-needed lift to investor and consumer confidence," she said. Outside influences Foreign investor interest in South Africa has waned since Ramaphosa took office, with non-domestic ownership of government bonds dipping to 39% at end-April 2019 from a peak of nearly 43% in March 2018. Godongwana said the ANC was putting "confidence-building measures" in place, but warned against setting expectations too high. "Economic growth is not something that you can declare. There are lots of puzzles. There is the global aspect which you don't have control over and investment decisions by third parties," he said. But as well as luring back foreign investors, Ramaphosa will also need to strike a balance between stimulating the economy and quelling simmering discontent, notably via land reform, among the black majority over lingering wealth disparities. The latter has arguably become more acute with the strong election showing of the far-left EFF party, which champions the rights of landless blacks. It won 44 seats and saw its share of the vote rise to 10.8%. "High inequality and the rise of the EFF could prepare the ground for more populist economic policies," said rating agency Fitch said. It acknowledged tensions between the government objectives of addressing inequality and accelerating GDP, but said it expected no significant negative impact from this on growth or budget metrics. Sergey Dergachev, a senior portfolio manager at Germany-based Union Investment, meanwhile remains "underweight" South Africa. "The underlying structural problems are still tough to tackle," he said. "...Even with a new mandate, it'll be very difficult to get South Africa back on a growth trend again."

South Africa: Ramaphosa's economic reforms in focus as ANC adjusts to smaller majority

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's ruling ANC won re-election on Friday with an absolute majority in parliament, results showed, but with diminished support, complicating economic revival and anti-corruption efforts.

The results, published by the electoral commission, are the party's worst national showing since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/significance-of-may-10-in-south-africa-when-democracy-trumped-racial-discrimination-217572">Nelson Mandela led it to victory</a> in the first multi-racial polls after apartheid ended in 1994.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anc-takes-commanding-lead-in-south-africas-election-but-support-recedes-217393">African National Congress</a> (ANC) held a comfortable lead with 57.73 per cent at 1615 GMT after 95 per cent of voting districts were officially tallied following Wednesday's vote.

That means they will be mathematically assured more than 50 per cent of votes cast in the final official tally, due to be announced Saturday.

Seats in parliament are allocated based on vote share and the party with the most representatives selects the president, who will be sworn in on May 25.

President Ramaphosa, 66, took over last year when the ANC forced then-president Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years dominated by corruption allegations and economic decline.

Results released by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) showed the ANC's closest rival, the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA), trailing with a distant 20.65 per cent of the vote.

The Economic Freedom Fighters, founded six years ago by former ANC youth leader Julius Malema, was in third place with 10.51 per cent -- up to four percentage points on 2014.

'A period of hope'?

"The ANC is being given a chance," said political analyst Lumkile Mondi. "This is an opportunity for them to reincarnate themselves."

"The ANC is never going to perform any better, it's a dying party, it continues shedding votes -- because it does not have economic management capability."

Ramaphosa has so far faced resistance to his reform agenda, especially from Zuma's allies who still occupy several high-ranking positions in the party and government.

After casting his ballot on Wednesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-ramaphosa-casts-vote-vows-to-grow-economy-217005">Ramaphosa said the election</a> was "heralding new dawn... a period of renewal, a period of hope".

The ANC's reputation was badly sullied under Zuma. Its support has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party taking 54 per cent in 2016 municipal elections, compared with 62 per cent in 2014's national vote.

Forty-eight parties contested the elections -- a record number.

Asked if Ramaphosa's favourable reputation had saved the ANC from defeat, party secretary-general Ace Magashule insisted "people have voted the ANC, they haven't voted for any person".

But Susan Booysen, a visiting professor at the Wits School of governance, said, "it is a lower percentage but it is way higher for the ANC than it would have been had Zuma been still in power".

The conservative and predominantly white Freedom Front Plus party, founded in 1994 during the negotiations to end apartheid, was performing unexpectedly well as the fifth-placed party in the vote. They were previously seventh.

The economy grew just 0.8 per cent in 2018 and unemployment hovers around 27 per cent -- soaring to over 50 per cent among young people.

"(We) liberated this country so we would have expected more," said ANC spokesman Dakota Legoete ahead of the latest results. "(But) in 2014 we did not have 48 parties... now we have 48 parties, 47 of them are competing for the jugular vein of the ANC."

About 26.8 million people were registered to vote but only around 65.6 per cent turned out.

Mandla Booi, 45, a voter in Port Elizabeth on the south coast, said, "the ANC has taken people for granted".

"There is some arrogance which has crept in."

'Era of political realignment'

The main opposition DA had sought to shed its image as a white, middle-class party with its first black leader, Mmusi Maimane, contesting his first general election since taking the helm in 2015.

"Even though we've lost some votes, we've held the centre -- and I will lead that project going forward," he told reporters at the results centre.

"It may not have happened this time, but come 2021, 2024 (elections) we can demonstrate... that we can hold South Africans together."

Malema's EFF made major gains, growing from 6.3 per cent in the 2014 poll.

"In the next election there will not be any outright winner... so we are going to enter the era of coalitions before there's another big party that can emerge," said EFF chairman Dali Mpofu. "We are going into an era of political realignment."

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's ruling ANC won re-election on Friday with an absolute majority in parliament, results showed, but with diminished support, complicating economic revival and anti-corruption efforts.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's ruling ANC won re-election on Friday with an absolute majority in parliament, results showed, but with diminished support, complicating economic revival and anti-corruption efforts. The results, published by the electoral commission, are the party's worst national showing since Nelson Mandela led it to victory in the first multi-racial polls after apartheid ended in 1994. The African National Congress (ANC) held a comfortable lead with 57.73 per cent at 1615 GMT after 95 per cent of voting districts were officially tallied following Wednesday's vote. That means they will be mathematically assured more than 50 per cent of votes cast in the final official tally, due to be announced Saturday. Seats in parliament are allocated based on vote share and the party with the most representatives selects the president, who will be sworn in on May 25. President Ramaphosa, 66, took over last year when the ANC forced then-president Jacob Zuma to resign after nine years dominated by corruption allegations and economic decline. Results released by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) showed the ANC's closest rival, the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA), trailing with a distant 20.65 per cent of the vote. The Economic Freedom Fighters, founded six years ago by former ANC youth leader Julius Malema, was in third place with 10.51 per cent -- up to four percentage points on 2014. 'A period of hope'? "The ANC is being given a chance," said political analyst Lumkile Mondi. "This is an opportunity for them to reincarnate themselves." "The ANC is never going to perform any better, it's a dying party, it continues shedding votes -- because it does not have economic management capability." Ramaphosa has so far faced resistance to his reform agenda, especially from Zuma's allies who still occupy several high-ranking positions in the party and government. After casting his ballot on Wednesday, Ramaphosa said the election was "heralding new dawn... a period of renewal, a period of hope". The ANC's reputation was badly sullied under Zuma. Its support has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party taking 54 per cent in 2016 municipal elections, compared with 62 per cent in 2014's national vote. Forty-eight parties contested the elections -- a record number. Asked if Ramaphosa's favourable reputation had saved the ANC from defeat, party secretary-general Ace Magashule insisted "people have voted the ANC, they haven't voted for any person". But Susan Booysen, a visiting professor at the Wits School of governance, said, "it is a lower percentage but it is way higher for the ANC than it would have been had Zuma been still in power". The conservative and predominantly white Freedom Front Plus party, founded in 1994 during the negotiations to end apartheid, was performing unexpectedly well as the fifth-placed party in the vote. They were previously seventh. The economy grew just 0.8 per cent in 2018 and unemployment hovers around 27 per cent -- soaring to over 50 per cent among young people. "(We) liberated this country so we would have expected more," said ANC spokesman Dakota Legoete ahead of the latest results. "(But) in 2014 we did not have 48 parties... now we have 48 parties, 47 of them are competing for the jugular vein of the ANC." About 26.8 million people were registered to vote but only around 65.6 per cent turned out. Mandla Booi, 45, a voter in Port Elizabeth on the south coast, said, "the ANC has taken people for granted". "There is some arrogance which has crept in." 'Era of political realignment' The main opposition DA had sought to shed its image as a white, middle-class party with its first black leader, Mmusi Maimane, contesting his first general election since taking the helm in 2015. "Even though we've lost some votes, we've held the centre -- and I will lead that project going forward," he told reporters at the results centre. "It may not have happened this time, but come 2021, 2024 (elections) we can demonstrate... that we can hold South Africans together." Malema's EFF made major gains, growing from 6.3 per cent in the 2014 poll. "In the next election there will not be any outright winner... so we are going to enter the era of coalitions before there's another big party that can emerge," said EFF chairman Dali Mpofu. "We are going into an era of political realignment."

Cyril Ramaphosa's ANC wins closely-watched South Africa poll with absolute majority

The African National Congress (ANC) was headed toward victory in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-struggling-25-years-after-apartheid-216887">South Africa</a>`s election on Friday, partial results showed, though the party was on course for its worst performance in a national poll in its 25 years in government.&nbsp;

As of 0010 GMT, ballots in 72 per cent of 22,925 voting districts had been counted. The tallies put the ANC on 57 per cent in the parliamentary race, with the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) on 22 per cent and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) on 10 per cent.

The former liberation party of Nelson Mandela has not won less than a 60 per cent share of the vote since it swept to power in South Africa`s first all-race election in 1994, marking the end of white minority rule.

Based on the latest results from the Electoral Commission, analysts predicted the ANC was set for a vote share of between 55 per cent and 59 per cent. A poor showing for the ANC would embolden opponents of President Cyril Ramaphosa and risk a potential challenge to his leadership, analysts have said. 
"The ANC will be elected with a record low of 27 per cent of the eligible population backing them, compared with 47 per cent in 1999. This kind of dynamic is not a mandate nor an impetus to change," said Peter Attard Montalto, head of capital markets research at Intellidex.&nbsp;

"WILLING TO FORGIVE"&nbsp;

In the first national test at the ballot box for Ramaphosa, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-party-leaders-battle-it-out-in-south-africa-election-216891">South Africans</a> voted on Wednesday for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures. They had expressed frustration at rampant corruption, high unemployment and racial inequalities that remain deeply entrenched.

Ramaphosa is trying to arrest a slide in support for Africa`s oldest liberation movement, whose tenure in the last decade was punctuated by corruption scandals, a stagnant economy and high unemployment.

"People have shown they are willing to forgive the ANC," said Ronald Lamola, a member of the ANC`s top governing body. "We are looking at a clear mandate for our policies."&nbsp;

With promises to fight graft, improve public services and put people into jobs, Ramaphosa won an internal party leadership election in December 2017, narrowly defeating a faction allied with former head of state Jacob Zuma. Ramaphosa replaced the scandal-plagued Zuma as president of Africa`s most advanced economy three months later.

But his efforts have been constrained by divisions within his own party, where some Zuma supporters still retain influence and oppose his agenda.&nbsp;

The ANC achieved its best parliamentary election result in 2004 under former President Thabo Mbeki, when it won more than 69 per cent of the vote. But its support fell under Zuma, and it lost control of big cities like Johannesburg, the commercial capital, in local government elections in 2016.

Election officials said voting, in general, had progressed smoothly but that there had been isolated disruptions caused by bad weather, unscheduled power outages or community protests.

The African National Congress (ANC) was headed toward victory in South Africa`s election on Friday, partial results showed, though the party was on course for its worst performance in a national poll in its 25 years in government.

The African National Congress (ANC) was headed toward victory in South Africa`s election on Friday, partial results showed, though the party was on course for its worst performance in a national poll in its 25 years in government. As of 0010 GMT, ballots in 72 per cent of 22,925 voting districts had been counted. The tallies put the ANC on 57 per cent in the parliamentary race, with the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) on 22 per cent and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) on 10 per cent. The former liberation party of Nelson Mandela has not won less than a 60 per cent share of the vote since it swept to power in South Africa`s first all-race election in 1994, marking the end of white minority rule. Based on the latest results from the Electoral Commission, analysts predicted the ANC was set for a vote share of between 55 per cent and 59 per cent. A poor showing for the ANC would embolden opponents of President Cyril Ramaphosa and risk a potential challenge to his leadership, analysts have said. "The ANC will be elected with a record low of 27 per cent of the eligible population backing them, compared with 47 per cent in 1999. This kind of dynamic is not a mandate nor an impetus to change," said Peter Attard Montalto, head of capital markets research at Intellidex. "WILLING TO FORGIVE" In the first national test at the ballot box for Ramaphosa, South Africans voted on Wednesday for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures. They had expressed frustration at rampant corruption, high unemployment and racial inequalities that remain deeply entrenched. Ramaphosa is trying to arrest a slide in support for Africa`s oldest liberation movement, whose tenure in the last decade was punctuated by corruption scandals, a stagnant economy and high unemployment. "People have shown they are willing to forgive the ANC," said Ronald Lamola, a member of the ANC`s top governing body. "We are looking at a clear mandate for our policies." With promises to fight graft, improve public services and put people into jobs, Ramaphosa won an internal party leadership election in December 2017, narrowly defeating a faction allied with former head of state Jacob Zuma. Ramaphosa replaced the scandal-plagued Zuma as president of Africa`s most advanced economy three months later. But his efforts have been constrained by divisions within his own party, where some Zuma supporters still retain influence and oppose his agenda. The ANC achieved its best parliamentary election result in 2004 under former President Thabo Mbeki, when it won more than 69 per cent of the vote. But its support fell under Zuma, and it lost control of big cities like Johannesburg, the commercial capital, in local government elections in 2016. Election officials said voting, in general, had progressed smoothly but that there had been isolated disruptions caused by bad weather, unscheduled power outages or community protests.

ANC takes commanding lead in South Africa's election but support recedes

South African elections officials counted ballot papers in the early hours of Thursday, a day after a vote seen as the toughest test yet for the African National Congress (ANC) party <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-struggling-25-years-after-apartheid-216887">25 years after it swept to power</a> at the end of white minority rule.

The elections for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures are the first barometer of national sentiment since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-elections-corruption-jobs-top-issues-as-cyril-ramaphosas-anc-faces-tough-battle-216078">President Cyril Ramaphosa </a>replaced scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as head of state in February 2018.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-party-leaders-battle-it-out-in-south-africa-election-216891">Three party leaders battle it out in South Africa election</a>

Ramaphosa is trying to arrest a slide in support for the ANC, which has won every parliamentary vote since the end of apartheid in 1994 but whose image has been tarnished by corruption scandals and a weak economy in the past decade.

Opinion polls suggest the ANC will again win a majority of the parliament`s 400 seats, but analysts say its margin of victory may fall amid frustration with slow progress addressing racial disparities in income and wealth.

Most polling stations closed around 1900 GMT on Wednesday.

Results from some stations will start to trickle in on Thursday morning, but a final tally could only be ready by Saturday.

Elections officials said voting had in general progressed smoothly but that there had been isolated incidents where bad weather, power outages or community protests had caused disruptions. The electoral commission said it was investigating two potential instances of double-voting.

"The Electoral Commission will not allow the potential misconduct of one or two individuals to taint the overall outcome of these elections," the commission said in a statement.

The ANC`s biggest challengers at the elections are the main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

The ANC won 62 per cent of the vote at the last parliamentary election in 2014, far short of its best result, 69 per cent in 2004 under President Thabo Mbeki. 
It currently controls eight of the country`s nine provinces, with the DA in power in the Western Cape.

Ramaphosa, who became ANC leader in December 2017 after narrowly defeating a faction allied with Zuma, has promised to improve poor public services, create jobs and fight corruption.

South African elections officials counted ballot papers in the early hours of Thursday, a day after a vote seen as the toughest test yet for the African National Congress (ANC) party 25 years after it swept to power at the end of white minority rule.

South African elections officials counted ballot papers in the early hours of Thursday, a day after a vote seen as the toughest test yet for the African National Congress (ANC) party 25 years after it swept to power at the end of white minority rule. The elections for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures are the first barometer of national sentiment since President Cyril Ramaphosa replaced scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as head of state in February 2018. Also read: Three party leaders battle it out in South Africa election Ramaphosa is trying to arrest a slide in support for the ANC, which has won every parliamentary vote since the end of apartheid in 1994 but whose image has been tarnished by corruption scandals and a weak economy in the past decade. Opinion polls suggest the ANC will again win a majority of the parliament`s 400 seats, but analysts say its margin of victory may fall amid frustration with slow progress addressing racial disparities in income and wealth. Most polling stations closed around 1900 GMT on Wednesday. Results from some stations will start to trickle in on Thursday morning, but a final tally could only be ready by Saturday. Elections officials said voting had in general progressed smoothly but that there had been isolated incidents where bad weather, power outages or community protests had caused disruptions. The electoral commission said it was investigating two potential instances of double-voting. "The Electoral Commission will not allow the potential misconduct of one or two individuals to taint the overall outcome of these elections," the commission said in a statement. The ANC`s biggest challengers at the elections are the main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). The ANC won 62 per cent of the vote at the last parliamentary election in 2014, far short of its best result, 69 per cent in 2004 under President Thabo Mbeki. It currently controls eight of the country`s nine provinces, with the DA in power in the Western Cape. Ramaphosa, who became ANC leader in December 2017 after narrowly defeating a faction allied with Zuma, has promised to improve poor public services, create jobs and fight corruption.

South Africa counts votes as Ramaphosa's ANC looks to retain power

South Africa <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africans-head-to-polls-tipped-to-be-won-by-anc-216888">goes to the polls </a>Wednesday with the leaders of the three main parties vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-struggling-25-years-after-apartheid-216887">ANC's long-held dominance</a>.

Here is a look at the three:

- The shrewd president -

Cyril Ramaphosa, the leader of the ruling ANC party, took the country's reins last year after a dramatic and varied career intertwined with the birth of modern South Africa.

He was a pioneering young trade union leader, an anti-apartheid activist, and a Nelson Mandela protege who led talks to end white-minority rule and helped write the new constitution.

When Mandela walked out of jail in 1990, Ramaphosa was standing beside him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-election-facts-and-voting-procedures-216479">South Africa election facts and voting procedures</a>

But after missing out on becoming Mandela's successor as president, Ramaphosa instead became a hugely wealthy businessman through stakes in McDonalds, Coca-Cola, mining and telecommunications, and developing a taste for breeding rare cattle.

In 2012, his image was badly tarnished when police killed 34 striking workers at the Marikana platinum mine, operated by London-listed Lonmin, where he was then a non-executive director.

Ramaphosa had called for a crackdown on the strikers, whom he accused of "dastardly criminal" behaviour.

He returned to politics to become Jacob Zuma's vice president in 2014, often drawing criticism for failing to speak out against corruption and government mismanagement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/25-years-after-apartheid-south-africans-still-not-free-president-213961">25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President</a>

Renowned for his patience and strategic thinking, Ramaphosa narrowly beat off pro-Zuma rivals to take over the leadership of the ANC in 2017 and then claim the presidency when Zuma was forced out last year.

Ramaphosa's support base crosses South Africa's racial and class divides, but he still faces strong opposition from factions within the ANC.

"This is a decisive moment in our country, in the history of South Africa, this is a moment when... we choose hope over despair," he told supporters at the ANC's final campaign rally.

Born in Johannesburg's Soweto township, Ramaphosa took up activism while studying law in the 1970s, and spent 11 months in solitary confinement in 1974.

The young opposition leader&nbsp;

Mmusi Maimane, 38, is the first black leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's main opposition party.

Raised in Soweto -- the heartland of the anti-apartheid struggle -- Maimane only joined the DA in 2009 and was fast-tracked through its ranks to take control in 2015.

His rapid promotion led to accusations that he was being used by the party's senior white activists to cover up a lack of reform within the party.

A gifted orator and smooth campaigner, he has kept the DA in the spotlight, broadened its appeal and held together its warring factions.

But he has struggled to land punches on Ramaphosa or to convince many black middle-class voters that the DA is not still a "white" party.

A devout Christian, he has a masters degree in Theology and regularly preaches at church, where he met his white wife Natalie.

Before getting into politics, Maimane ran his own management consultancy and lectured at a business school in Johannesburg.

His reserved leadership style could come under question if the DA fails to make significant gains on the 22 percent of the vote it got in the 2014 election.

The radical firebrand

Julius Malema, 38, is a former ANC youth leader who launched the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party in 2013 and, against all the odds, has turned it into a political force.

He was kicked out of the ruling party after coming into conflict with the leadership but has thrived as a rebel, delivering fiery speeches spiced with jokes and digs at Ramaphosa, the ANC and South Africa's white minority.

Presenting himself as the voice of the young and unemployed, he demands the seizure of land from whites without compensation, and the nationalisation of mines and banks.

His threat to the ANC was underlined last year when Ramaphosa adopted a tougher stance on land reform to appease a section of the electorate, spooking foreign investors.

Wearing a red beret and styling himself as "commander in chief", Malema hopes to ride a growing wave of discontent among the poorest of South Africans 25 years after the end of apartheid.

During Jacob Zuma's reign as president, he led his lawmakers in a campaign to disrupt parliament by chanting and heckling, before being thrown out by security officers.

His party holds 25 seats in the 400-member parliament.

South Africa goes to the polls Wednesday with the leaders of the three main parties vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling ANC's long-held dominance.

South Africa goes to the polls Wednesday with the leaders of the three main parties vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling ANC's long-held dominance. Here is a look at the three: - The shrewd president - Cyril Ramaphosa, the leader of the ruling ANC party, took the country's reins last year after a dramatic and varied career intertwined with the birth of modern South Africa. He was a pioneering young trade union leader, an anti-apartheid activist, and a Nelson Mandela protege who led talks to end white-minority rule and helped write the new constitution. When Mandela walked out of jail in 1990, Ramaphosa was standing beside him. Also read: South Africa election facts and voting procedures But after missing out on becoming Mandela's successor as president, Ramaphosa instead became a hugely wealthy businessman through stakes in McDonalds, Coca-Cola, mining and telecommunications, and developing a taste for breeding rare cattle. In 2012, his image was badly tarnished when police killed 34 striking workers at the Marikana platinum mine, operated by London-listed Lonmin, where he was then a non-executive director. Ramaphosa had called for a crackdown on the strikers, whom he accused of "dastardly criminal" behaviour. He returned to politics to become Jacob Zuma's vice president in 2014, often drawing criticism for failing to speak out against corruption and government mismanagement. Also read: 25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President Renowned for his patience and strategic thinking, Ramaphosa narrowly beat off pro-Zuma rivals to take over the leadership of the ANC in 2017 and then claim the presidency when Zuma was forced out last year. Ramaphosa's support base crosses South Africa's racial and class divides, but he still faces strong opposition from factions within the ANC. "This is a decisive moment in our country, in the history of South Africa, this is a moment when... we choose hope over despair," he told supporters at the ANC's final campaign rally. Born in Johannesburg's Soweto township, Ramaphosa took up activism while studying law in the 1970s, and spent 11 months in solitary confinement in 1974. The young opposition leader Mmusi Maimane, 38, is the first black leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's main opposition party. Raised in Soweto -- the heartland of the anti-apartheid struggle -- Maimane only joined the DA in 2009 and was fast-tracked through its ranks to take control in 2015. His rapid promotion led to accusations that he was being used by the party's senior white activists to cover up a lack of reform within the party. A gifted orator and smooth campaigner, he has kept the DA in the spotlight, broadened its appeal and held together its warring factions. But he has struggled to land punches on Ramaphosa or to convince many black middle-class voters that the DA is not still a "white" party. A devout Christian, he has a masters degree in Theology and regularly preaches at church, where he met his white wife Natalie. Before getting into politics, Maimane ran his own management consultancy and lectured at a business school in Johannesburg. His reserved leadership style could come under question if the DA fails to make significant gains on the 22 percent of the vote it got in the 2014 election. The radical firebrand Julius Malema, 38, is a former ANC youth leader who launched the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party in 2013 and, against all the odds, has turned it into a political force. He was kicked out of the ruling party after coming into conflict with the leadership but has thrived as a rebel, delivering fiery speeches spiced with jokes and digs at Ramaphosa, the ANC and South Africa's white minority. Presenting himself as the voice of the young and unemployed, he demands the seizure of land from whites without compensation, and the nationalisation of mines and banks. His threat to the ANC was underlined last year when Ramaphosa adopted a tougher stance on land reform to appease a section of the electorate, spooking foreign investors. Wearing a red beret and styling himself as "commander in chief", Malema hopes to ride a growing wave of discontent among the poorest of South Africans 25 years after the end of apartheid. During Jacob Zuma's reign as president, he led his lawmakers in a campaign to disrupt parliament by chanting and heckling, before being thrown out by security officers. His party holds 25 seats in the 400-member parliament.

Three party leaders battle it out in South Africa election

South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday in national elections which the ruling ANC party, in power since 1994, is the favourite to win despite corruption scandals and sluggish economic growth and record unemployment.

The ANC has won all the past five elections, but Wednesday's vote is set to be an electoral test on whether the party has staunched a decline in popularity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-election-facts-and-voting-procedures-216479">South Africa election facts and voting procedures</a>

The party is tipped to win the vote, but with a reduced majority and the result will reveal whether its new leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, can reverse growing resentment among South African voters.

Ramaphosa took over from scandal-tainted Jacob Zuma, under whose leadership the ANC saw the most significant drop in support since 1994.

He acknowledged on the eve of the election that "we are humble enough to admit our mistakes. We have taken decisive steps to fight corruption."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/25-years-after-apartheid-south-africans-still-not-free-president-213961">25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President</a>

The election comes 25 years since Mandela led the African National Congress (ANC) to power in the country's first multi-racial ballot, which marked the globally-celebrated end of apartheid rule.

Support for the ANC has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party winning just 54 per cent in 2016 local elections, compared with 62 per cent in the last national vote in 2014.

Ramaphosa, 66, took office last year when Zuma was forced to resign as president by the ANC after a nine-year reign dominated by corruption allegations and economic woes.

Most opinion surveys suggest the ANC will secure nearly 60 per cent of the vote on Wednesday, thanks to the Ramaphosa effect and a weak and fragmented opposition.

"The ANC will pull another majority. It might be a reduced majority," said political scientist Collette Schulz-Herzenberg from Stellenbosch University.

"It reflects the weakness of the opposition, more than it does reflect the achievements of the ANC," she added.&nbsp;

Weak opposition

The pro-business moderate Ramaphosa is a former anti-apartheid activist and trade union leader who was Mandela's apparent favourite to succeed him as president.

After being outmanoeuvred in that race, Ramaphosa instead became a wealthy entrepreneur before serving as Zuma's vice president.

The ANC has been confronted by deepening public anger over its failure to tackle poverty and inequality in post-apartheid South Africa.

The economy grew just 0.8 per cent in 2018 and unemployment hovers at a high of nearly 27 per cent, rising over 50 per cent among young people.

Corruption, especially in state owned companies became almost endemic under Zuma.

"In a normal country the ANC should be losing the election on the 8th (of May)," said University of Witwatersrand senior lecturer Lumkile Mondi.

Of the 47 opposition parties in the race, only the main opposition centrist Democratic Alliance (DA) and the radical-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are major players.

The DA which hopes to shed its image as a white, middle-class party as its first black leader, Mmusi Maimane, fights in his first general election since he took the helm in 2015, is expected to make marginal gains from the 22 per cent it won 2014.

But the radical leftist EFF, founded just six years ago by a former ANC youth leader Julius Malema, is predicted to make major inroads, growing from 6.3 per cent to a forecast 11 per cent.

The party, which appeals mainly to young voters and the poor, has centred its election campaign on its policy of seizing land from largely white owners to give to poor blacks.

Enforced land redistribution has also been adopted as a policy by Ramaphosa's government -- alarming some investors.

Wednesday's provincial elections will also measure ANC fortunes, with the party in a close fight with the DA for control of Gauteng, which includes the capital Pretoria and the economic hub Johannesburg.

Some 26.8 million voters are registered to cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations.

Polls open at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and close 14 hours later.

Early results will emerge on Thursday with an official winner declared on Saturday.&nbsp;

The party that wins most seats in parliament selects the president, who will be sworn in on May 25.

South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday in national elections which the ruling ANC party, in power since 1994, is the favourite to win despite corruption scandals and sluggish economic growth and record unemployment.

South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday in national elections which the ruling ANC party, in power since 1994, is the favourite to win despite corruption scandals and sluggish economic growth and record unemployment. The ANC has won all the past five elections, but Wednesday's vote is set to be an electoral test on whether the party has staunched a decline in popularity. Also read: South Africa election facts and voting procedures The party is tipped to win the vote, but with a reduced majority and the result will reveal whether its new leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, can reverse growing resentment among South African voters. Ramaphosa took over from scandal-tainted Jacob Zuma, under whose leadership the ANC saw the most significant drop in support since 1994. He acknowledged on the eve of the election that "we are humble enough to admit our mistakes. We have taken decisive steps to fight corruption." Also read: 25 years after apartheid, South Africans still not free: President The election comes 25 years since Mandela led the African National Congress (ANC) to power in the country's first multi-racial ballot, which marked the globally-celebrated end of apartheid rule. Support for the ANC has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party winning just 54 per cent in 2016 local elections, compared with 62 per cent in the last national vote in 2014. Ramaphosa, 66, took office last year when Zuma was forced to resign as president by the ANC after a nine-year reign dominated by corruption allegations and economic woes. Most opinion surveys suggest the ANC will secure nearly 60 per cent of the vote on Wednesday, thanks to the Ramaphosa effect and a weak and fragmented opposition. "The ANC will pull another majority. It might be a reduced majority," said political scientist Collette Schulz-Herzenberg from Stellenbosch University. "It reflects the weakness of the opposition, more than it does reflect the achievements of the ANC," she added. Weak opposition The pro-business moderate Ramaphosa is a former anti-apartheid activist and trade union leader who was Mandela's apparent favourite to succeed him as president. After being outmanoeuvred in that race, Ramaphosa instead became a wealthy entrepreneur before serving as Zuma's vice president. The ANC has been confronted by deepening public anger over its failure to tackle poverty and inequality in post-apartheid South Africa. The economy grew just 0.8 per cent in 2018 and unemployment hovers at a high of nearly 27 per cent, rising over 50 per cent among young people. Corruption, especially in state owned companies became almost endemic under Zuma. "In a normal country the ANC should be losing the election on the 8th (of May)," said University of Witwatersrand senior lecturer Lumkile Mondi. Of the 47 opposition parties in the race, only the main opposition centrist Democratic Alliance (DA) and the radical-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are major players. The DA which hopes to shed its image as a white, middle-class party as its first black leader, Mmusi Maimane, fights in his first general election since he took the helm in 2015, is expected to make marginal gains from the 22 per cent it won 2014. But the radical leftist EFF, founded just six years ago by a former ANC youth leader Julius Malema, is predicted to make major inroads, growing from 6.3 per cent to a forecast 11 per cent. The party, which appeals mainly to young voters and the poor, has centred its election campaign on its policy of seizing land from largely white owners to give to poor blacks. Enforced land redistribution has also been adopted as a policy by Ramaphosa's government -- alarming some investors. Wednesday's provincial elections will also measure ANC fortunes, with the party in a close fight with the DA for control of Gauteng, which includes the capital Pretoria and the economic hub Johannesburg. Some 26.8 million voters are registered to cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations. Polls open at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and close 14 hours later. Early results will emerge on Thursday with an official winner declared on Saturday. The party that wins most seats in parliament selects the president, who will be sworn in on May 25.

South Africans head to polls tipped to be won by ANC

In its sixth election since the end of Apartheid rule, South Africa today is all set to test the popularity of the African National Congress that has been ruling the country since its independence in 1994.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-election-facts-and-voting-procedures-216479">South Africa election facts and voting procedures</a>

Polling stations opened for&nbsp;national elections in the country on Wednesday with around&nbsp;26.8 million voters registered to cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations.

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The ANC is tipped to win but with a reduced majority and the result will reveal whether its new leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, can reverse growing resentment among South African voters.

Support for the ANC has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party winning just 54 per cent in 2016 local elections, compared with 62 per cent in the last national vote in 2014.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-party-leaders-battle-it-out-in-south-africa-election-216891">main opponents in the battle&nbsp;</a>for power in South Africa are&nbsp;Cyril Ramaphosa&nbsp;from the ruling ANC,&nbsp;Mmusi Maimane from the Democratic Alliance (DA) which is also the main opposition party in South Africa and&nbsp;Julius Malema from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party.

The leaders of the three main parties are vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling ANC's long-held dominance.

The land is a highly emotive issue in South Africa, where the bulk of productive agricultural land has remained in white hands since the end of apartheid in 1994. A farm industry group and government argue over exactly how much land is in black hands.

That land was forcibly taken from black people during the colonial and apartheid eras.

Under pressure from the far-left EFF and more radical elements in the ANC, Ramaphosa last year launched a process to change the constitution to make explicit provision for land expropriation without compensation

The three main political parties have all put job creation at the heart of their campaigns with around 27 per cent of South Africans unemployed in the fourth quarter last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In its sixth election since the end of Apartheid rule, South Africa today is all set to test the popularity of the African National Congress that has been ruling the country since its independence in 1994.

In its sixth election since the end of Apartheid rule, South Africa today is all set to test the popularity of the African National Congress that has been ruling the country since its independence in 1994. Also read: South Africa election facts and voting procedures Polling stations opened for national elections in the country on Wednesday with around 26.8 million voters registered to cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations. × The ANC is tipped to win but with a reduced majority and the result will reveal whether its new leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, can reverse growing resentment among South African voters. Support for the ANC has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party winning just 54 per cent in 2016 local elections, compared with 62 per cent in the last national vote in 2014. The main opponents in the battle for power in South Africa are Cyril Ramaphosa from the ruling ANC, Mmusi Maimane from the Democratic Alliance (DA) which is also the main opposition party in South Africa and Julius Malema from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party. The leaders of the three main parties are vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling ANC's long-held dominance. The land is a highly emotive issue in South Africa, where the bulk of productive agricultural land has remained in white hands since the end of apartheid in 1994. A farm industry group and government argue over exactly how much land is in black hands. That land was forcibly taken from black people during the colonial and apartheid eras. Under pressure from the far-left EFF and more radical elements in the ANC, Ramaphosa last year launched a process to change the constitution to make explicit provision for land expropriation without compensation The three main political parties have all put job creation at the heart of their campaigns with around 27 per cent of South Africans unemployed in the fourth quarter last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Voting begins in South Africa to elect next government

A special vote began Monday in South Africa, with about 770,000 voters expected to cast their votes ahead of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-elections-corruption-jobs-top-issues-as-cyril-ramaphosas-anc-faces-tough-battle-216078&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNx8z77IjiAhXz7HMBHTs0Ae4QFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29B4acCK2kT8G64_5Ope1K">general election</a> scheduled on Wednesday, according to the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC).

At the city hall in Durban, the third most populous city in South Africa, local councillor Ntando Khuzwayo is among the close to one million voters participating in the exercise.

The special vote allows a registered voter, unable to vote at their voting station on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/campaigning-in-south-africa-wraps-up-ahead-of-election-216508&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNx8z77IjiAhXz7HMBHTs0Ae4QFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ca7KcMTaJKqGW9Mj0Uu2N">Election Day</a> to vote ahead of the main polls.

Those taking part have to apply well in advance.

"It was very easy, it took less than a minute, the whole thing is done so seamless. As soon as they find you on the voters roll, you then move over to get your ID stamped and then you are given the ballot, a very long ballot, it's the longest I have seen in my life," said Khuzwayo.

Meanwhile, a total of 452,418 special voters will be visited at home by voting officials.

Home visits are provided for those voters who have disabilities or other complications that will not allow them to visit voting stations.

Those who would not be near their voting stations or away on the day of the election on Wednesday also participated in the special voting.

The special vote also gives the electoral commission a chance to test the process ahead of the main voting day on Wednesday

"The first voter arrived at 9 and was able to vote. Up until now, we have voted about 12 people. We are expecting 43 people are going to come and vote," said Mamotsau Sithole, a presiding officer with the Independent Electoral Commission.

The process will conclude on Tuesday evening.

On Wednesday close to 27 million registered voters are expected to vote in more than 22,000 polling stations across the country.

The day has been declared a public holiday.

A heightened security presence is already visible at all polling stations.

A special vote began Monday in South Africa, with about 770,000 voters expected to cast their votes ahead of the general election scheduled on Wednesday, according to the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC).

A special vote began Monday in South Africa, with about 770,000 voters expected to cast their votes ahead of the general election scheduled on Wednesday, according to the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC). At the city hall in Durban, the third most populous city in South Africa, local councillor Ntando Khuzwayo is among the close to one million voters participating in the exercise. The special vote allows a registered voter, unable to vote at their voting station on Election Day to vote ahead of the main polls. Those taking part have to apply well in advance. "It was very easy, it took less than a minute, the whole thing is done so seamless. As soon as they find you on the voters roll, you then move over to get your ID stamped and then you are given the ballot, a very long ballot, it's the longest I have seen in my life," said Khuzwayo. Meanwhile, a total of 452,418 special voters will be visited at home by voting officials. Home visits are provided for those voters who have disabilities or other complications that will not allow them to visit voting stations. Those who would not be near their voting stations or away on the day of the election on Wednesday also participated in the special voting. The special vote also gives the electoral commission a chance to test the process ahead of the main voting day on Wednesday "The first voter arrived at 9 and was able to vote. Up until now, we have voted about 12 people. We are expecting 43 people are going to come and vote," said Mamotsau Sithole, a presiding officer with the Independent Electoral Commission. The process will conclude on Tuesday evening. On Wednesday close to 27 million registered voters are expected to vote in more than 22,000 polling stations across the country. The day has been declared a public holiday. A heightened security presence is already visible at all polling stations.

Special vote underway in South Africa ahead of general election

South Africa goes to polls this week in what will be the sixth elections in the country since the end of apartheid in 1994. The elections, due on May 8 is expected to be a referendum on the ruling African National Congress (ANC) that has been in power since 1994 but now faces infighting and division.&nbsp;

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa who took over from Jacob Zuma last year is facing a tough battle. Corruption, jobs remain a key issue for South Africans in major cities like Pretoria, Johannesburg and Durban.

At the Univesity of Pretoria, WION spoke to a few students, who were divided if Cyril will make a comeback.

One student said, "I will say he has good chances of winning. The problem is he has promised us as South Africans that he will tackle corruption in ANC. Which, hasn't been done, or it has not been done in a way that the general public can notice.''

Another female student retorted, "But then Ramaphosa promised things and he delivered. Example, the rand (African currency) has not been fluctuating as much and compared to the dollar it has been stronger. Our foreign relations have grown in such a way to get investors."

Corruption remains a huge issue, especially under former president Zuma, who was mired in corruption allegations. Other contenders in the elections are Mmusi Maimane's Democratic Alliance (South Africa) and the far-left political party Economic Freedom Fighters EFF which can disturb the calculus.&nbsp;

One student said, "EFF is thriving since it cares about a post-apartheid generation."

Nelson Mandela's legacy continues to play a role. This year South Africa marks 25 years since the end of apartheid. Country's founding father Nelson Mandela's legacy continues to play an important part of political life especially the young democracy.&nbsp;

"He played an important role in the history of South Africa, especially since he was on the forefront of the struggle. He oversaw a peaceful transition. It is important to vote as black people since we didn't have that privileged earlier", said a lady in Johannesburg.&nbsp;

Asked about the Rainbow nation, Mandela dreamed off, a young South African working in a hotel said, "We see nothing. It's next to impossible right now, it's hard to see, South Africa will ever be the rainbow nation we hoped for, it is very difficult right now."

Brand South Africa, working under's Minister of Communications and Telecommunications, and who focuses on the country's image, believes democracy is the country's USP in a continent where democracy is a rare commodity.

Judy Smith-Höhn, General Manager, Brand South Africa, told WION in Johannesburg, "25 years is a great achievement...Something, we are proud of. As you know, Democracy is not a smooth ride. It allows everyone's voices to be heard and there will be issues of contention. As long as we allowed it to be discussed, then we are on a good path."

And as with every election anywhere, fake news is a major problem. Especially after the xenophobic riots in Durban in March. The rioters had attributed to President Cyril Ramaphosa's speech at ANC's election manifesto contributing to xenophobic felling. Rampaphosa had called for a tougher line on undocumented foreigners.

"We must remain vigilant. One needs to build digital capacity in future. Digital capacity to monitor. We had cases, suddenly on Friday a news story breaks, and everyone jumps into arms. Then you find the source of it, then you drill it, you say hang on. It is taking more time, more resources", &nbsp;Petrus de Kock; General Manager for Research; Brand South Africa, replied to WION when asked how the country is tackling fake news.

The country is excited about the elections. Airwaves are already celebrating and giving the wall to wall coverage of the election. While Mandela is the towering figure, his legacy of the rainbow country is something that unites South Africa and will continue to do so in generations to come.

South Africa goes to polls this week in what will be the sixth elections in the country since the end of apartheid in 1994. The elections, due on May 8 is expected to be a referendum on the ruling African National Congress (ANC) that has been in power since 1994 but now faces infighting and division.

South Africa goes to polls this week in what will be the sixth elections in the country since the end of apartheid in 1994. The elections, due on May 8 is expected to be a referendum on the ruling African National Congress (ANC) that has been in power since 1994 but now faces infighting and division. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa who took over from Jacob Zuma last year is facing a tough battle. Corruption, jobs remain a key issue for South Africans in major cities like Pretoria, Johannesburg and Durban. At the Univesity of Pretoria, WION spoke to a few students, who were divided if Cyril will make a comeback. One student said, "I will say he has good chances of winning. The problem is he has promised us as South Africans that he will tackle corruption in ANC. Which, hasn't been done, or it has not been done in a way that the general public can notice.'' Another female student retorted, "But then Ramaphosa promised things and he delivered. Example, the rand (African currency) has not been fluctuating as much and compared to the dollar it has been stronger. Our foreign relations have grown in such a way to get investors." Corruption remains a huge issue, especially under former president Zuma, who was mired in corruption allegations. Other contenders in the elections are Mmusi Maimane's Democratic Alliance (South Africa) and the far-left political party Economic Freedom Fighters EFF which can disturb the calculus. One student said, "EFF is thriving since it cares about a post-apartheid generation." Nelson Mandela's legacy continues to play a role. This year South Africa marks 25 years since the end of apartheid. Country's founding father Nelson Mandela's legacy continues to play an important part of political life especially the young democracy. "He played an important role in the history of South Africa, especially since he was on the forefront of the struggle. He oversaw a peaceful transition. It is important to vote as black people since we didn't have that privileged earlier", said a lady in Johannesburg. Asked about the Rainbow nation, Mandela dreamed off, a young South African working in a hotel said, "We see nothing. It's next to impossible right now, it's hard to see, South Africa will ever be the rainbow nation we hoped for, it is very difficult right now." Brand South Africa, working under's Minister of Communications and Telecommunications, and who focuses on the country's image, believes democracy is the country's USP in a continent where democracy is a rare commodity. Judy Smith-Höhn, General Manager, Brand South Africa, told WION in Johannesburg, "25 years is a great achievement...Something, we are proud of. As you know, Democracy is not a smooth ride. It allows everyone's voices to be heard and there will be issues of contention. As long as we allowed it to be discussed, then we are on a good path." And as with every election anywhere, fake news is a major problem. Especially after the xenophobic riots in Durban in March. The rioters had attributed to President Cyril Ramaphosa's speech at ANC's election manifesto contributing to xenophobic felling. Rampaphosa had called for a tougher line on undocumented foreigners. "We must remain vigilant. One needs to build digital capacity in future. Digital capacity to monitor. We had cases, suddenly on Friday a news story breaks, and everyone jumps into arms. Then you find the source of it, then you drill it, you say hang on. It is taking more time, more resources", Petrus de Kock; General Manager for Research; Brand South Africa, replied to WION when asked how the country is tackling fake news. The country is excited about the elections. Airwaves are already celebrating and giving the wall to wall coverage of the election. While Mandela is the towering figure, his legacy of the rainbow country is something that unites South Africa and will continue to do so in generations to come.

South Africa Elections: Corruption, jobs top issues as Cyril Ramaphosa's ANC faces tough battle

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