Ramaphosa’s praise for DA sparks ouster speculation

PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa is facing amountinga wave of discontent and whispers ofa plot to remove him from power before the 2027 elective conference.

- MASHUDU SADIKE

This follows controversial comments he made during the ANC’ recent roll call on Monday, where he lauded the DA-controlled municipalities as examples of good governance.

The remarks have not only angered officials within his own party but have also provided fresh ammunition for his detractors, who are reportedly eyeing an opportunity to depose him ahead of the crucial 2026 local government elections.

However, the South African Communist Party (SACP), an ally in the tripartite alliance, has been quick to downplay these assertions, dismissing them as mere rumours.

This, despite the party itself, has detracted from the alliance following its announcement to run next year's elections independently from the ANC.

The comments, particularly highlighting the DA’s performance in some of the country’s best-run municipalities, have sparked significant discontent within the ANC and its alliance partners.

Anger is said to have intensified among ANC officials in Gauteng and Limpopo, with some openly discussing strategies to remove Ramaphosa from his position.

During the sidelines of the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting this week, senior members who are aligned against Ramaphosa, especially those who oppose the Government of National Unity (GNU) that includes the DA, seized the opportunity.