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In a recent statement at the African National Congress (ANC) Progressive Business Forum’s golf day fundraiser in Cape Town, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa’s commitment to assisting Mozambique in the face of potential political instability following its recent elections. The elections, which ushered in Daniel Chapo as the president-elect, were marred by opposition protests and subsequent unrest leading to a temporary closure of the border between South Africa and Mozambique.
The unrest in Mozambique has attracted attention from neighboring countries and international observers, emphasizing the fragility of electoral processes in many African nations. As a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), South Africa plays a pivotal role in regional stability and has thus pledged unwavering support to Mozambique during this tumultuous period.
President Ramaphosa articulated the solidarity of the SADC nations, emphasizing their readiness to assist Mozambique. “We are prepared, willing, and able to give them as much support as we possibly can to be able to navigate their way out of the challenges that they face,” Ramaphosa stated. He expressed hope for a peaceful inauguration scheduled for January 15, signaling full support to ensure stability and peace.
However, despite this commitment, Ramaphosa expressed uncertainty about his presence at the upcoming inauguration of Chapo, citing scheduling conflicts and previous commitments like the one that prevented him from attending the inauguration of Ghana’s President-elect John Dramani Mahama.
South Africa’s stance comes at a critical time when regional alliances and support mechanisms are more essential than ever to maintaining peace and fostering democratic processes across the continent. The international community will be watching closely to see how situations such as these unfold and how regional leaders like Ramaphosa navigate these complex waters to promote stability and peace in Africa.