Politics South Africa's President announces new government cabinet

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced his new cabinet. In a televised address, the head of state confirmed the transfer of 12 ministerial posts to opposition parties.

The largest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), takes over six posts. DA party leader John Steenhuisen will take over the Ministry of Agriculture. With 20 ministries, including key ministries such as Foreign Affairs, Defense, Energy and Finance, the African National Congress (ANC) retains the lion's share of cabinet posts.

Cabinet larger than last time

With a total of 32 ministerial posts, the cabinet is two seats larger than in previous years. This is due to the composition of the new government. It consists of eleven parties that are to lead the fortunes of Africa's strongest economy in a Government of National Unity (GNU). Ramaphosa's party, the ANC, lost its absolute majority for the first time in 30 years after a massive loss of power in the parliamentary elections on May 29 and can no longer govern alone.

Economic growth, social justice and a democratic renewal of the country are priorities for the new government. The fight against poverty, unemployment and crime is also a priority. Corruption and the exploitation of the state are also to be tackled.

Shaky coalition alliance

The government alliance is a kind of grand coalition, but without any firm coalition agreements. According to political analysts, the stability and effectiveness of such a form of government is questionable.

As a country with access to a continent that is becoming increasingly important internationally due to its raw material deposits required for the energy transition, the political events in South Africa are also relevant for Germany and Europe. South Africa is also the only African member of the group of major economies (G20).