Is a new Ramaphosa-led party our last hope?

There is increasing talk about the possibility of a new party forming in the event of a Zuma faction victory at the ANC Electoral Conference in December. For many this possibility remains the only light at the end of the dark political tunnel of late. But would it really be a positive turn of events?

Forming a new party is not for the faint-hearted. It is tough and many have failed in trying to do so. It is particularly difficult when one big party like the ANC dominates the political landscape. For such a new party to make an impact it would need huge popular support which would in turn require high profile and popular leaders.

The big question is therefore whether, if he fails in his bid for the presidency, Cyril Ramaphosa would be willing to lead such a party. Ramaphosa has the credibility, gravitas and popularity to pull other big names into such a party. He might even be able to convince our former public protector, Thuli Madonsela to come back from America to join him on the ticket. What a winning team that would be!