Ramaphosa Engages in Dialogue at Wits

ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa engaged in a dynamic dialogue with students at Wits University, delving into pressing issues ahead of the upcoming May 29 elections. The event, part of the “In their Voices and through their Lenses” series, facilitated a candid exploration of the ANC’s three-decade tenure in governance.

Professor Adebayo Olukoshi of the Wits School of Governance (WSG) steered the conversation, focusing on critical topics such as coalition politics, corruption, and crime. As the election countdown nears its climax, concerns mount over the ANC’s potential dip below the 50% majority threshold, potentially necessitating coalition governance.

President Ramaphosa, however, brushed off speculations, expressing confidence in the ANC’s enduring electoral dominance. He dismissed coalition governance as “completely unworkable,” citing negative repercussions witnessed in municipalities like Tshwane.

Addressing the scourge of corruption, Ramaphosa acknowledged the ANC’s tainted past, particularly during his predecessor Jacob Zuma’s administration, which he dubbed the “nine lost years.” Despite recognizing corruption as a hindrance to progress, he underscored the shared culpability of both public and private sectors.

Moreover, Ramaphosa outlined efforts to reform institutions marred by corruption, including the revenue service and the National Prosecuting Authority. He reiterated his commitment to restoring integrity to law enforcement agencies and combating crime, acknowledging the challenge of corruption within the police force.

Youth unemployment and economic restructuring also featured prominently in the discussion, with Ramaphosa emphasizing the need for diversification and empowerment initiatives to stimulate growth. He highlighted black economic empowerment and sector-specific master plans as strategies to invigorate the economy, envisioning job creation through re-industrialization and emerging sectors like green hydrogen and electric vehicle manufacturing.

The dialogue encompassed a spectrum of pressing issues, from land reform and immigration policies to skills development and education financing.