Umkhonto weSizwe Party President and former ANC President Jacob Zuma could return as South Africa’s president if Cyril Ramaphosa resigns. An analyst says that if Ramaphosa steps down, factions leaning toward far-left politics in the ANC would take charge. The faction includes allies of Magashule, who opposed Ramaphosa’s ANC presidency. Those linked to Magashule and Zuma’s camp have long wanted the ANC to form a Government of National Unity with progressive parties and exclude the Democratic Alliance.
During the weekend’s National Executive Committee (NEC) closing remarks, President Cyril Ramaphosa hinted that rival factions inside the NEC are pushing for his resignation. He said he’s prepared to step down at any time—if a date is set. An ANC insider added that the upcoming National General Council (NGC) in December at Narec could seal his fate.
Other potential contenders for the presidency include the current Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi. Some have also floated EFF President Julius Malema as a possible successor to Lesufi as Gauteng Premier.
