PRETORIA – In a significant temporary handover of power, President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana as Acting President of South Africa, effective from today, 21 October, until 27 October 2025.
The move comes as President Ramaphosa embarks on a consecutive series of high-stakes international visits aimed at bolstering South Africa’s economic and diplomatic ties ahead of its pivotal G20 presidency.
A Packed Diplomatic Schedule
The Presidency outlined an intensive travel itinerary that necessitates the appointment. President Ramaphosa will depart for a Working Visit to Indonesia on Tuesday, followed immediately by a State Visit to Vietnam. He will then proceed to Malaysia for another State Visit, during which he will also participate in a Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The diplomatic marathon continues the following week with a State Visit to Switzerland on 29-30 October.
Strategic Significance and Domestic Stewardship
These back-to-back visits are strategically timed to “advance South Africa’s bilateral relations… particularly in trade and investment,” according to a statement. Crucially, the engagements are also meant to “strengthen cooperation with partner states in global forums” in preparation for the G20 Leaders’ Summit, which South Africa will chair in Johannesburg in November 2025.
The appointment of Minister Godongwana, a key figure in managing the nation’s finances, ensures a steady hand at the helm during the President’s absence. The notice clarified that Deputy President Paul Mashatile will be on leave during this period, solidifying Godongwana’s role as the senior authority in the country.
This temporary transfer of executive power underscores the government’s confidence in the Finance Minister and ensures continuity of governance while the President focuses on elevating South Africa’s global standing during a critical period for the economy.
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