South African president announces new cabinet with former opposition leader

Re-elected South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the appointment of a new cabinet including former opposition leader John Steenhuisen.

Mr. John Steenhuisen is now in charge of agriculture. It comes as Ramaphosa’s African National Congress was forced to join forces with rival parties to stay in power after losing its majority for the first time in three decades in May 29 elections.

The announcement of the new cabinet of the government of national unity followed weeks of protracted and at times acrimonious negotiations.

“These men and women we have appointed to the executive … reflect the diversity of our nation,” Ramaphosa said.

“In the spirit of partnership and collaboration, the incoming government will work together,” he added.