Godongwana steps in as Acting President for Ramaphosa’s extensive overseas tour

Zuko Komisa

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is appointed Acting President from 21-27 October 2025, as President Ramaphosa undertakes a key Southeast Asian tour.
The President’s visits to Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia are aimed at boosting trade and investment and will also involve him attending an ASEAN Summit.
Deputy President Mashatile is on leave during this period, with the international travel serving as preparation for Ramaphosa’s hosting of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has been appointed as the Acting President of South Africa, effective from Tuesday, 21 October, until Monday, 27 October 2025.

The appointment was made by President Cyril Ramaphosa as he embarks on a series of significant international visits. Deputy President Shipokosa Paul Mashatile is on leave during the same period.

President Ramaphosa’s itinerary includes a Working Visit to Indonesia on 22 October, followed by State Visits to Vietnam (23-24 October) and Malaysia (24-27 October), where he will also attend a Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Following this, the President is scheduled for a State Visit to Switzerland from 29-30 October.

The Presidency stated that these engagements are crucial for advancing South Africa’s bilateral relations, particularly in trade and investment, and will strengthen cooperation in global forums.

These trips are also part of the President’s preparations for chairing the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg on 22 and 23 November 2025.