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President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, as Acting President of South Africa. This decision comes as both the President and Deputy President Paul Mashatile are temporarily out of the country from 8 to 9 October 2025.
What Happened
On 8 October 2025, the Presidency announced that Minister Motshekga would take on the role of Acting President. This is in line with Section 90(1) of the South African Constitution, which allows a temporary transfer of Presidential duties when both the President and Deputy President are unavailable.
President Ramaphosa is currently on an official visit to Ireland. On 9 October, he is attending the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels, Belgium. During this period, Minister Motshekga will manage the responsibilities of the Presidency.
Official Response
A statement from the Presidency explained that the appointment ensures stable leadership while the President and Deputy President attend international engagements.
This is the second time in 2025 that Minister Motshekga has served as Acting President. Her reappointment reflects growing confidence in her leadership within Cabinet.
Community Impact
Political analysts believe that such interim appointments help maintain government stability during key foreign missions.
For South Africans, this means that executive functions will continue without disruption. Minister Motshekga will now handle all decisions that require Presidential authority.
