Cyril Ramaphosa

Ramaphosa co-founded the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and became its General Secretary. He led strikes and negotiations, becoming a prominent figure in the anti-apartheid movement and the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU).

Ramaphosa chaired the Constitutional Assembly that drafted South Africa's post-apartheid constitution. The constitution, adopted in 1996, established a democratic framework and bill of rights.

Cyril Ramaphosa was elected President of South Africa by the National Assembly after Jacob Zuma resigned. He had previously served as Deputy President and was seen as a reformist leader.

Ramaphosa launched his presidency with the 'Thuma Mina' (Send Me) initiative, emphasizing anti-corruption and economic revival. He pledged to restore the credibility of state institutions and attract investment.

Ramaphosa's government pursued land reform, including a constitutional amendment to allow expropriation without compensation. The policy sparked intense debate and was criticized by some as threatening property rights.

Ramaphosa's government implemented one of the strictest lockdowns in the world to combat COVID-19. The response included a massive economic stimulus package and social grants, but also faced criticism for enforcement and economic damage.