McKenzie Warns ANC Against Pushing Ramaphosa Out Amid Economic Gains

McKenzie Backs Ramaphosa, Citing Economic Progress

Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader Gayton McKenzie has spoken out against calls for President Cyril Ramaphosa to step down, warning that removing him now would be a “massive mistake” for both the ANC and the country.

Addressing supporters on Facebook Live over the weekend, McKenzie painted a picture of economic recovery under Ramaphosa’s Government of National Unity (GNU), pointing to falling inflation and the creation of nearly 300,000 jobs in the third quarter of 2025.

“Patriots, let me tell you tonight: there’s war. The war has started,” McKenzie said, highlighting internal tensions within the ANC and alleged pressures for Ramaphosa to resign.

He warned against succumbing to factions seeking to oust the president, insisting that the country was on an upward trajectory. “We are being led into prosperity. It would be a great mistake for them to want to move Ramaphosa and come with a new kingnot now,” he added.

Economic Wins Highlighted

McKenzie underscored the strengthening rand, lower inflation, and job creation as evidence that the GNU was delivering results. “In the third quarter, we created close to 300,000 jobs. So the GNU is really taking the country up now,” he said.

He also referenced his personal experience conducting overseas transactions, noting the rand’s improved value, and encouraged citizens to listen to experts who back the administration’s economic performance.

Rumours of Resignation Denied

Speculation has circulated that Ramaphosa might step down after the upcoming G20 Heads of State Summit in Johannesburg (22–23 November), fueled by internal pressures within the ANC.

However, the ANC and close allies have strongly dismissed these claims. Acting ANC spokesperson Nonceba Mhlauli said over the weekend that there is no “departure lounge” for Ramaphosa, emphasizing that his current term runs until December 2027.

Long-time adviser Bejani Chauke echoed this, describing rumours of Ramaphosa’s resignation as “disturbing and unfounded,” insisting they were attempts to undermine preparations for Africa’s first G20 summit. “The administration remains stable and focused on delivering for the people of South Africa,” Chauke said.

McKenzie’s Support Tied to PA’s Role in GNU

Since the GNU’s formation after the May 2024 elections, McKenzie has consistently praised Ramaphosa, reflecting the Patriotic Alliance’s position as a coalition partner. Analysts note that McKenzie’s public backing serves both to reassure voters of government stability and to counter speculation that internal ANC factions might destabilize leadership in the lead-up to the G20 summit.

Political Stability in Focus

With the G20 summit set to draw global attention to South Africa, the stakes are high. McKenzie’s warning highlights ongoing tensions within the ANC while reinforcing Ramaphosa’s leadership credentials amid positive economic indicators.

Whether factions within the ruling party will heed his warning or continue pushing for change, remains uncertain. But for now, the message from both coalition partners and presidential advisers is clear: Cyril Ramaphosa is not stepping down, and the GNU will continue its current path toward economic growth and stability.