Godongwana takes the helm as Acting President during Ramaphosa’s seven-day absence

By Charles Molele

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana to serve as Acting President until next Monday.

Ramaphosa is undertaking a three-nation visit to Southeast Asia, while Deputy President Paul Mashatile will be on leave during this period.

Some of Ramaphosa’s visits to Southeast Asia include working and State visits to Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia.

The visits are meant to advance South Africa’s bilateral relations with the respective countries, particularly in respect of trade and investment.

In Indonesia, Ramaphosa is expected to meet with his counterpart, President Prabowo Subianto.

The two leaders will hold a tête-à-tête, priming the subsequent official bilateral talks with respective ministerial delegations in support.

Ramaphosa will also deliver opening remarks at the bilateral talks to encapsulate relations with Indonesia and further strengthen cooperation in areas of trade, agriculture, tourism and defence.

“This engagement aims to diversify trade in the face of global dynamics,” according to