President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to face a challenging session in Parliament on Tuesday, 27 May 2025. He will respond to six pressing questions from members of Parliament. These oral replies serve as a crucial tool in Parliament’s oversight role. This ensures that the executive remains transparent and accountable to the South African public.
The upcoming Q&A will tackle a high-stakes topic. This will range from contentious racial classifications on government documents to economic challenges and South Africa’s diplomatic stance on the Ukraine conflict. These issues reflect the nation’s ongoing efforts to reconcile its complex social identity, reduce economic disparities, and maintain its voice on the global stage.
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1. Racial Identity: Who Qualifies as African?
One of the session’s most emotionally charged questions comes from Patriotic Alliance Chief Whip Marlon Daniels. He challenges the way government documents—especially the Z83 employment form—categorize race. The form separates “Africans” from Indians, Coloureds, Whites, and Khoi/San, raising concerns about exclusion and identity.
Daniels argues that this classification suggests non-black South Africans are not considered African, undermining the country’s commitment to post-apartheid inclusivity. Ramaphosa must clarify whether all racial groups are officially recognized as African and explain the rationale behind the current classification system. His response will carry weight in ongoing discussions about national identity and social equality.
2. Mineral Resource Taxation Reform
ANC’s Mdumiseni Ntuli will question the president about potential reforms in mineral taxation. Ntuli references a World Bank report indicating that governments lose up to 60% of revenue potential from exported minerals. Although South Africa implemented the Mineral Petroleum and Resources Royalty (MPRR) in 2010, critics believe the current system leaves money on the table.
Ntuli wants to know whether Ramaphosa plans to adjust the policy to boost state revenue and fund public services more effectively. The response could have significant implications for economic planning and investor confidence in South Africa’s mining sector.
3. Tackling the Rising Cost of Living
The DA’s George Michalakis will confront Ramaphosa with rising consumer costs, backed by Statistics South Africa’s April CPI report showing a 2.8% year-on-year increase. The inflation rate has remained between 3% and 6% in recent years, putting pressure on households across the economic spectrum.
Michalakis seeks a clear plan from the president to ease the financial burden on ordinary South Africans, particularly amid stagnant poverty rates and high unemployment. Ramaphosa will need to present tangible policy interventions that protect the most vulnerable from mounting costs.
4. Strategies for Economic Growth
Corne Mulder from the Freedom Front Plus will probe Ramaphosa on his government’s economic vision. Despite efforts to expand basic services, many communities still suffer from poor service quality and limited opportunities. Mulder wants to hear how the president intends to stimulate economic growth, improve public infrastructure, and create jobs.
With many South Africans relying heavily on labor income, Ramaphosa must outline a comprehensive growth strategy that strengthens the labor market and supports inclusive development.
5. South Africa’s Role in the Ukraine Conflict
On the global front, Ramaphosa will answer questions about South Africa’s diplomatic efforts in the Russia-Ukraine war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s brief April visit ended abruptly after Russian strikes hit Kyiv, highlighting the ongoing volatility of the conflict.
Members of Parliament want to know whether Ramaphosa has engaged with U.S. President Donald Trump, who claims he can end the war—and how South Africa plans to contribute to international peace efforts. The president’s stance may redefine South Africa’s foreign policy credibility.
6. Inquiry into Apartheid-Era Investigations
The MK Party will seek updates on the newly announced Judicial Commission of Inquiry into apartheid-era crimes. The presidency launched the inquiry in April to address allegations that certain investigations were intentionally obstructed. Victims’ families have already taken legal action, prompting the government to request a court stay pending the commission’s findings.
Cyril Ramaphosa must assure the public that the inquiry will be thorough, impartial, and impactful—not just a procedural formality. Accountability in this matter is key to addressing historic injustices and restoring public trust.
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s appearance in Parliament comes at a defining moment for the nation. With elections looming and political tensions rising, his responses to these six questions will shape both the parliamentary agenda and public opinion. The stakes are high, and how he handles the scrutiny could influence his legacy—and the future direction of South Africa.
