Leadership Abroad: Gwede Mantashe Acts as President
As of 18 May 2025, South Africa’s Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, has officially assumed the role of Acting President of the Republic. This temporary appointment follows the simultaneous absence of both President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile. They are currently undertaking high-level international engagements in the United States and France, respectively.
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Why Gwede Mantashe is Acting President
The appointment is by Section 90(1)(b) of the South African Constitution. This section provides for the president to designate a minister to act in his place. This is in the event that both the president and deputy president are unavailable. The decision, announced by presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, is valid from 18 to 22 May 2025.
“This designation flows from the simultaneous Working Visits by President Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile.” Magwenya explained, emphasizing that the country remains under capable leadership even in their absence.
This marks the second time in recent weeks that Gwede Mantashe has stepped into a presidential role. He also delivered the Freedom Day keynote address in Ermelo, Mpumalanga, on 27 April. He was standing in for President Ramaphosa, who was recovering from the flu at the time.
Ramaphosa’s Visit to the United States
President Ramaphosa is currently in the United States of America on a Working Visit. The visit is focused on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing strategic economic and political interests. One of the key items on his agenda is a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, which will cover trade, investment, and geopolitical cooperation.
Despite recent diplomatic tensions between the two nations, Ramaphosa maintains a firm stance: “We will not be distracted by anything. We will just focus on what is important for our country,” he said to the media.
The South African government must use this visit as an opportunity to reinforce ties with the U.S. As well as attract American investment, and showcase South Africa’s role as a leading economic and political player on the African continent.
Mashatile’s Diplomatic Mission in France
Meanwhile, Deputy President Paul Mashatile is visiting France. He aims to further strengthen the historic and mutually beneficial ties between the two nations. His trip aims to build on current collaboration and explore new opportunities for trade and investment.
Mashatile’s visit follows closely on the heels of Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola’s diplomatic engagement in Paris, where he co-chaired the 9th Session of the Forum for Political Dialogue (FPD). Discussions there revolved around international developments and enhancing bilateral political relations.
Mashatile is expected to participate in forums, roundtable discussions, and bilateral meetings with French government officials and business leaders. Areas of cooperation include infrastructure development, renewable energy, education, and innovation, sectors that are key to South Africa’s economic growth strategy.
The Importance of Continuity in Governance
While both Ramaphosa and Mashatile represent South Africa on the international stage, Gwede Mantashe’s appointment ensures continuity in domestic governance. Known for his long-standing role in the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and his extensive political experience, Mantashe is considered a steady hand to manage the country’s affairs during this brief transitional period.
During his Freedom Day address, Mantashe reminded South Africans of the importance of sovereignty, saying: “South Africa is a free and sovereign country, not a province of the US,” affirming the nation’s independence in global affairs.
As South Africa engages with key global partners to strengthen its international standing and attract critical investment, the temporary shift in leadership reflects the flexibility and robustness of its constitutional democracy. Gwede Mantashe’s role as Acting President underscores the country’s ability to maintain political stability and administrative continuity, even when top leaders are abroad.
While Ramaphosa and Mashatile focus on advancing South Africa’s interests on the world stage, the nation continues to function effectively under Mantashe’s stewardship — a testament to mature governance and a clear succession framework.
