Gauteng Premier and ANC Provincial Chairperson Panyaza Lesufi has passionately defended his leadership and the ANC’s decision to form a Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) without the Democratic Alliance (DA). Speaking at the South African Communist Party (SACP) conference, Lesufi pushed back against critics of the controversial coalition, which was established after the ANC failed to secure an outright majority in Gauteng during the last provincial elections.
“When we established a government of provincial unity without that other political party, we were attacked and insulted,” Lesufi stated, alluding to the DA. “But the South African Communist Party stood with us. Our sin was that we established a government without bullies.”
A Coalition Without the DA
Lesufi’s decision to exclude the DA from the coalition government in Gauteng diverged sharply from the approach taken in provinces like KwaZulu-Natal, where a Government of National Unity (GNU) included both the ANC and DA. In Gauteng, however, Lesufi rejected cross-party collaboration with the DA, arguing that such an arrangement would undermine the ANC’s transformative agenda.
“We are focused on delivering a government that aligns with our principles and values,” he said. “Transformation cannot be achieved by compromising with political bullies.”
While some hailed the move as a bold assertion of the ANC’s identity, others criticized it as a missed opportunity for inclusivity and stability.
Gratitude for SACP Support
At the SACP conference, Lesufi praised the Communist Party for standing by the ANC during a politically turbulent time. He emphasized the importance of partnerships with organizations that share the ANC’s vision for progressive governance in Gauteng.
[WATCH] "We were attacked and insulted. Our sin was that we established a government without bullies." Gauteng Premier and provincial ANC chairperson Panyaza Lesufi says the SACP supported the province when they formed a government of provincial unity not including the DA.… pic.twitter.com/bvP5CU91ha
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) December 12, 2024
“The SACP stood with us when others doubted. Their loyalty during those challenging times was invaluable,” Lesufi said, underscoring the ideological alignment between the two parties.
Challenges of Coalition Governance
Gauteng’s GPU now faces the dual challenges of delivering effective governance while maintaining coalition unity. Critics argue that by excluding the DA, the ANC risks alienating voters who favor broader inclusivity. Others, however, view the decision as a principled stand against compromising the ANC’s values.
The coalition must tackle pressing issues such as unemployment, service delivery, and economic growth, all while navigating the demands of its smaller partners.
A Broader Debate in South African Politics
Lesufi’s stance reflects a broader debate in South African politics: whether governance in a fractured democracy should prioritize compromise or conviction. While his decision to exclude the DA remains contentious, it underscores the ANC’s attempt to chart a new path in a rapidly evolving political landscape.
As coalition politics becomes the norm, Lesufi’s leadership could shape how South Africa navigates this new era—balancing transformative governance with the complexities of collaboration in an increasingly divided electorate.