JOHANNESBURG – President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday defied factional opponents within the ruling African National Congress, declaring at a tense National Executive Committee meeting that he would resign immediately if formally requested – but demanded critics “name the date” publicly rather than plot privately.
The challenge follows months of internal ANC discord after the party lost its parliamentary majority in May 2024 elections, forcing a coalition government.
Ramaphosa remarks coincided with final preparations for South Africa’s hosting of the G20 summit in Johannesburg from November 22-23, an event the president has framed as showcasing national stability.
Key coalition partner Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie voiced support on social media platform X, praising Ramaphosa steady leadership of the Government of National Unity.
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula dismissed speculation about leadership changes, asserting the party’s upcoming National General Council would not be weaponised to remove elected officials.
Ramaphosa, marking his 73rd birthday, framed the confrontation as a defense of institutional integrity: “We cannot run this organisation mafia-style,” he told NEC members, proposing lifestyle audits for all leadership.
His comments came amid media speculation about a post-G20 resignation, which the presidency denies.
The ANC maintains Ramaphosa will complete his term through 2027, but the public dare exposes deepening rifts as Deputy President Paul Mashatile emerges as a potential successor.
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