CAPE TOWN- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent strengthening of ties with Mozambican President Daniel Chapo and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has raised eyebrows, sparking allegations of potential election manipulation and strategic political alliances in South Africa’s next presidential election.
Ramaphosa met with Chapo at his official residence in Cape Town on Tuesday, reaffirming their commitment to deepening diplomatic, political, and economic cooperation between South Africa and Mozambique. The two leaders discussed strengthening state institutions and creating a conducive environment for business in both nations.
However, the growing political ties between Ramaphosa, Chapo, and Mnangagwa have ignited controversy. Ramaphosa’s alignment with Mnangagwa, who is widely accused of election rigging in Zimbabwe, has led to speculation that the South African president is seeking support from figures known for their controversial political tactics in the next presidential election.
Ramaphosa’s party, the ANC, has been grappling with diminished support in recent elections, leading some to believe that forging relationships with Mnangagwa, could give Ramaphosa an advantage. Mnangagwa’s close ties with Chapo, who has faced protests and allegations of election irregularities in Mozambique, further complicate the situation.
While Ramaphosa and Chapo focused on cooperation during their meeting, with discussions centred on political stability in Mozambique and fostering economic growth, the relationship between these leaders is not without its complexities. There are growing rumors suggesting that Mnangagwa may have played a role in influencing Chapo’s contested presidential victory in Mozambique, which some critics allege was rigged.
The timing of these engagements—amid political unrest in both Zimbabwe and Mozambique—has fueled suspicions that Ramaphosa’s outreach to these leaders may be a calculated move to secure political leverage, particularly in light of South Africa’s upcoming elections.
The meeting also focused on South Africa and Mozambique’s shared history and cultural connections, with Ramaphosa stressing the importance of political, diplomatic, and economic cooperation. South African companies have invested significantly in Mozambique, creating thousands of jobs, and both nations view each other as key partners in regional stability and energy security.
Despite these positive discussions, the growing influence of Mnangagwa and the controversy surrounding Chapo’s election have led many to question the true motivations behind these alliances. As South Africa approaches its own election cycle, these developments suggest that political strategy, rather than purely diplomatic concerns, may be playing a larger role in shaping Ramaphosa’s foreign policy.
These developments have raised concerns within South Africa, where the ANC’s weakening position has led some to believe that a friendship with both Chapo and Mnangagwa—two leaders with allegations of election manipulation—could provide Ramaphosa with critical support in the face of mounting challenges.
