Angie Motshekga Appointed Acting President as Ramaphosa Attends SADC Summit in Zimbabwe

Image Source: Angie Motshekga sworn in by Raymond Zondo. Picture: Twitter

Published by Everything ZA News

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms. Angie Motshekga, as Acting President of South Africa for today, Saturday, 17 August 2024. The temporary appointment comes as President Ramaphosa embarks on a working visit to Harare, Zimbabwe, to participate in the 44th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

The decision to appoint Motshekga as Acting President underscores her seniority and experience in the government. Raymond Zondo, the outgoing Chief Justice of South Africa, formally swore in Motshekga for her role as president for the day.

The SADC Summit is a significant event, offering an opportunity for regional leaders to evaluate and review the progress of the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) flagship integration agenda. This agenda, outlined in the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030, focuses on promoting peace and security, good governance, and socio-economic development and integration across the region.

As the acting head of state, Motshekga will oversee the country’s affairs during President Ramaphosa’s absence, ensuring continuity in the government’s operations. This marks a moment of responsibility and leadership for Motshekga, highlighting her role within the government during an important regional diplomatic engagement.