South Africa opposition parties merge

South Africa's main opposition party has announced anti-apartheid activist Mamphela Ramphele will be its presidential candidate this year.

Ms Ramphele, the companion of late black consciousness leader Steve Biko, only formed her Agang party last year.

Democratic Alliance leader Helen Zille said "there was no better person" than Ms Ramphele to lead their election bid.

Analysts say the move is intended to ward off accusations that the DA is "too white" to win power.

The two leaders said they were joining forces to bring unity to South Africa - the "unity Madiba [Nelson Mandela] fought for."

BBC