‘Ramaphosa Isn’t Going Anywhere’: Envoy Hits Back at Claims of President’s Resignation

Chauke calls the rumours “irresponsible” and says the President remains focused on national renewal and G20 preparations.

In South Africa’s ever-buzzing political landscape, rumours spread fast and this past weekend, one about President Cyril Ramaphosa’s alleged plan to resign was no exception. But according to his close ally and special envoy to the Central African Republic, Dr Bejani Chauke, there’s no truth to it at all.

“This rumour is devoid of truth,” Chauke said in a firm statement on social media, slamming the claims as “irresponsible” and “aimed at undermining preparations for the historic G20 Summit in Johannesburg.”

Whispers in the corridors of power

Speculation began swirling after reports suggested that Ramaphosa had held a private retreat with leaders of the Government of National Unity (GNU) sparking talk that he might step aside early next year. The Sunday Times added fuel to the fire, hinting at growing internal discussions within the ANC’s top ranks about succession and coalition politics.

But Chauke was quick to shut it down, describing the chatter as politically motivated noise. “President Ramaphosa’s international and domestic leadership record speaks for itself,” he said. “He was re-elected by Parliament to serve a second term, a clear democratic mandate from the people.”

Leading South Africa through renewal

Chauke praised Ramaphosa’s governance, saying the President has worked tirelessly to strengthen accountability, combat corruption, and drive national unity through the GNU framework.

“Through this coalition, we’ve seen a renewed focus on healing divisions, improving transparency, and driving social and economic justice,” Chauke noted, adding that Ramaphosa’s presidency represents more than party politics it reflects the collective will of over 60% of South Africans.

He emphasized that the president’s commitment to the nation remains “unwavering,” despite political infighting and factional tension within the ANC. “If there ever comes a time when the President considers shortening his term, it will be through Parliament’s decision not social media speculation,” he said.

The G20 Summit and South Africa’s global role

Ramaphosa is set to host world leaders at the first-ever G20 Summit on African soil a milestone moment for South Africa’s international standing. Chauke stressed that the president is fully focused on ensuring a successful event that advances the Global South’s development agenda.

“It is irresponsible for faceless individuals to suggest that the President would abandon his constitutional mandate,” he said. “He remains deeply committed to global cooperation and will continue engaging in forums such as the G8 to report on progress made in Johannesburg.”

Social media and public reaction

Online, opinions have been mixed. Some users rallied behind the president, praising his composure amid constant scrutiny. Others, however, expressed frustration with the ANC’s internal battles, suggesting that the rumours reflected growing public mistrust rather than concrete political plans.

“Every time South Africa moves forward, someone tries to destabilise things with rumours,” one X user commented. “Let the man host the G20 in peace.”

Stability in uncertain times

Chauke ended his remarks by assuring South Africans and international partners that the government remains stable and focused. “All levels of government, national, provincial, and municipal are on deck. The administration is working with determination to deliver for the people of South Africa.”

His message was clear: despite the noise, Ramaphosa isn’t going anywhere.

With the G20 Summit around the corner, Ramaphosa’s administration faces not only logistical challenges but also political rumblings that test its stability. For now, though, his envoy insists that the President’s focus remains firmly on leading South Africa and representing it proudly on the world stage.

{Source: The Citizen}

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