President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Angie Motshekga, as Acting President of the Republic of South Africa. The appointment comes during the simultaneous absence of both the President and the Deputy President from the country.

The decision was made in accordance with Section 90(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, which allows for the delegation of presidential authority when the President and Deputy President are unable to perform their duties.

President Ramaphosa is currently on an official visit to Ireland and will attend the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels, Belgium, on Thursday, 9 October 2025. During this period, Minister Motshekga will assume the responsibilities and powers of the Presidency.

The South African Presidency issued the statement confirming the appointment, emphasizing that the delegation ensures continuity of governance and effective leadership in the temporary absence of the country’s top officials.