South African Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa became president of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) on Monday after a vote described as the most pivotal moment for the party since it launched black-majority rule under Nelson Mandela 23 years ago, a Reuters report said.

“Ramaphosa, a 65-year-old union leader who became a businessman and is now one of South Africa’s richest people, won against his sole rival, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, 68. She is a former cabinet minister and the ex-wife of President Jacob Zuma,” the report said.

The victory, which went according to predictions, puts Mr. Ramaphosa in line to succeed his boss as South Africa’s next President.