President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga as Acting President of South Africa from June 17 to 19, 2025, while he attends the G7 Leadership Summit in Canada and Deputy President Paul Mashatile visits France.
The Presidency confirmed the appointment on June 18, 2025, under Section 90(1)(b) of the Constitution.
Motshekga, a veteran politician from Soweto, has previously served as Acting President in 2019, 2021, and August 2024. Despite her temporary role, she continued her defence duties, including welcoming South African soldiers returning from a SADC mission in the DRC at Air Force Base Waterkloof. Her appointment marks a historic moment for women in South African politics, reflecting her growing stature in the government.
The public has expressed mixed sentiments on social media, with some praising Motshekga’s experience and others questioning the frequent need for acting presidents. Ramaphosa is expected to resume duties on June 20, 2025.
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