The ANC’s National Working Committee (NWC) has reportedly resolved to revisit negotiations with all Government of National Unity (GNU) partners, signaling potential turbulence in South Africa’s coalition government. This comes amid escalating tensions following last week’s budget vote, where the DA and FF+ opposed Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s fiscal framework—a move that has angered ANC leaders.
MK Party’s Scathing Critique
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has seized the moment to lambast the ANC’s coalition choices, with spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela declaring: “We don’t sign deals with devils. The ANC has signed a Faustian pact with the DA—you can never trust the devil.” The party, which has refused to join the GNU, accused the DA of prioritizing its electorate over national interests, claiming the official opposition-turned-governing-partner “has forgotten they’re no longer in opposition.”
Budget Fallout Sparks Crisis
The political rift widened when:
- The DA and FF+ broke ranks to vote against the ANC-backed budget
- ActionSA unexpectedly supported the fiscal framework
- ANC NEC members now demand the DA’s removal from the GNU, calling their budget stance “a betrayal”
DA’s Cautious Stance
While the ANC re-evaluates its partnerships, the DA’s Federal Executive adopted a wait-and-see approach after Monday’s meeting. Leader John Steenhuisen earlier emphasized commitment to the GNU, stating: “We entered government to help steer South Africa’s economic direction—not just swab decks.” However, he acknowledged the DA doesn’t seek dominance in the coalition arrangement.
Looming Cabinet Reshuffle?
Political insiders suggest the ANC’s review of GNU partnerships could precipitate a cabinet reshuffle. The developments highlight the fragile nature of South Africa’s unprecedented coalition experiment, where ideological differences continue to test the government’s stability.
As both major parties convene high-level meetings this week, the GNU’s future hangs in the balance—with the MK Party waiting in the wings, ready to capitalize on any collapse of what it calls “an unholy alliance.” The coming days may determine whether this multiparty government can survive its first major crisis.
