South Africa’s political marriage annulled

It was a political marriage that many called a game changer for South Africa. But a week later, the announcement that opposition Agang SA leader, Mamphela Ramphele would be the Democratic Alliance (DA) presidential candidate, the political marriage has been declared null and void.

Although it is said that a week in politics is a long time, the short-lived union between the DA and Agang was certainly a short love affair. As the two leaders kissed and hugged on national television, it seems there is no love lost between DA leader Helen Zille and Mamphela Ramphele.

On Sunday, the Democratic Alliance announced that the Agang leader had reneged on an agreement to stand as the DA’s presidential candidate. Both Zille and Ramphele held separate press briefings on Monday to explain what happened. In her explanation, Ramphele said the decision was rushed and the technical issues of a partnership were never ironed out. She also went on to add that although there was no “love lost” between the two parties, she can’t be with a party that has race-based policies.

Zille, on the other hand, disagreed and attacked Ramphele for reneging on their agreement. She went as far as to say that Ramphele was “unfit” to lead South Africa. To add fuel to the fire, Zille also lashed out at Ramphele, on Sunday, accusing her of playing cat and mouse games.

Ramphele went on to say that Agang would contest the election and will go it alone. But last week’s announcement has also raised a number of questions about the future of Agang. On the other hand, The DA said they would announce a new presidential candidate soon.

Source: The Africa Report