Bloomberg reports that the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu), which is allied with the ANC, says that any coalition deal struck by the party after its disastrous election performance last week must ensure President Cyril Ramaphosa retains his post and its manifesto pledges are upheld.

The ANC won just 40.2% of votes cast on 29 May, ceding its majority for the first time in 30 years. Cosatu has supported the ANC in every election since it took power in 1994. “What’s key is that a coalition be led by the ANC and President Ramaphosa, be progressive and biased toward the needs of working-class communities,” the federation said on Monday, adding that the new government should “defend the rights of workers, grow the economy and create jobs, tackle crime and corruption, invest in public services and unite the nation.” Matthew Parks, Cosatu’s parliamentary coordinator, insisted: “Cyril will remain. That’s non-negotiable.” Among the priorities included in the ANC’s manifesto are job creation, battling crime and improving infrastructure – all of which could be agreed to by the DA, which, with 21.8% of the vote, is the second-biggest party. Still, a pledge to phase in a controversial national health insurance (NHI) system and differences over foreign policy could prove potential stumbling blocks.

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard at Daily Investor

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