South Africa’s Ramaphosa Secures Ruling Coalition, but Allies Hold Veto Pretoria, South Africa – President Cyril Ramaphosa has secured a ruling coalition following the 2023 parliamentary elections, but his allies have been granted significant veto power, raising questions about his control over the government. The African National Congress (ANC), led by Ramaphosa, emerged as the largest party in the National Assembly, winning 55% of the vote. However, it fell short of the two-thirds majority needed to govern alone. To form a coalition, the ANC allied with the Democratic Alliance (DA), the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and several smaller parties. However, the DA and EFF have demanded significant concessions in exchange for their support. Under the coalition agreement, the DA will chair the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, which oversees the government’s spending. The EFF will have a veto over key legislation, including the appointment of executive authority officials such as ministers. Political analysts believe that these concessions could limit Ramaphosa’s ability to implement his reform agenda and could lead to political instability within the coalition. “Ramaphosa may have secured the numbers, but he is now beholden to his allies who have their own agendas,” said Dr. Pieter du Toit, a professor of political science at Stellenbosch University. The concession to the DA is seen as a way to appease the white electorate, who are concerned about the government’s policies on land and economic reform. The EFF’s veto power, on the other hand, is seen as a way to give the party a greater say in policymaking. “The EFF is a populist party that appeals to the frustrations of the poor and working class,” said Dr. Mmusi Maimane, a former leader of the DA. “Giving them a veto will allow them to block policies that they see as not being in the interests of their supporters.” Ramaphosa has said that he is committed to working with his allies to implement his vision for South Africa. However, it remains to be seen whether he will be able to balance the demands of his coalition partners with the needs of the country as a whole.Historic Coalition Government Takes Shape in South AfricaHistoric Coalition Government Takes Shape in South Africa Following late-night negotiations and a last-minute deal, South Africa has formed its first-ever coalition government. President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the government, which includes the African National Congress (ANC), the Democratic Alliance (DA), and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). The Difficult Road Ahead The unprecedented coalition emerged after the ANC suffered a decline in electoral support, failing to secure a majority in Parliament. Ramaphosa sought a “government of national unity” but faced opposition from leftist and former president Jacob Zuma’s party. Governing Principles The parties have agreed to an eight-page framework that will guide the coalition government. Key principles include respect for the Constitution, anti-racism, and anti-sexism. Economic growth is prioritized as the top goal. Concerns and Cautions Former DA leader Tony Leon acknowledges the difficulty of this arrangement, describing the election of the president as “the easy part.” He emphasizes the importance of trust in making the coalition functional. Constitutional law expert Pierre de Vos expresses concern about the implications of a coalition government for governance, citing the potential for fragmentation and differing ideological positions, particularly on issues like inequality and race. However, other analysts view the coalition as a positive step, arguing that it will force parties to move towards the center and find common ground.South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has secured a ruling coalition, but his allies hold veto power over key decisions, limiting his authority. The agreement, reached after weeks of negotiations, gives Ramaphosa’s African National Congress (ANC) the support of several smaller parties, including the radical left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). However, the EFF has insisted on a veto over cabinet appointments and key policy decisions, a move that has raised concerns about the stability of the coalition government. Ramaphosa, who took office in 2018, faces a number of challenges, including high unemployment, rampant corruption, and widening inequality. The coalition government is expected to focus on addressing these issues, but the EFF’s veto power could complicate efforts to implement meaningful reforms. Analysts say the agreement is a pragmatic attempt to ensure political stability, but it could also weaken Ramaphosa’s ability to govern effectively. The EFF has a history of disruptive behavior and has often criticized the ANC’s policies. It remains to be seen whether the coalition government can overcome these challenges and deliver on its promises.