For many decades, I have watched Cyril Ramaphosa closely.

First as a fiery trade unionist and then during CODESA.

I worked with him as a MP after 1994 and during the final writing of the Constitution. I was also privileged to have spent some time with him during my time as Ambassador in Ireland when he accompanied Nelson Mandela during a week-long visit.

Even when he was not in active politics, it was always clear to me that he was destined to become president of the country. Like Mandela he has a powerful charisma, a quiet sense of authority, a sense of humour and a brilliant smile.

Of course, unlike Mandela, he took over the leadership of the ANC and country at a very different time. It was never going to be an easy road.

Despite knowing this, I found myself silently swearing in despair last week.

On Wednesday he gave a speech in Calvinia to celebrate the birthday of the ANC. It also served as a “warm-up” for the actual January the 8th statement which was to be delivered on the 11th of January.

The speech was boring. He said what was necessary, but it was monotone and it felt like he was going through the motions. There was no sign of the charismatic, powerful man that I had come to know over the years.