The African National Congress (ANC) has hit back at the Patriotic Alliance (PA), accusing its coalition partner of using threats and ultimatums in the ongoing dispute involving PA deputy president Kenny Kunene.
This follows tensions sparked by allegations against Kunene, with some parties within coalition governments questioning his suitability to continue holding political office. The PA has strongly defended Kunene, warning that any attempts to remove him would destabilize existing coalition arrangements.
Speaking at a media briefing on Tuesday, ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said the ruling party would not be coerced into decisions by its partners. “We do not appreciate the PA putting a gun to our heads over the Kunene matter. Coalition politics must be based on principle, respect, and constructive engagement — not ultimatums,” she said.
The ANC maintains that while it values cooperation in municipalities where no single party has a majority, coalition partners must respect due process and the integrity of governance structures. “It cannot be that one individual’s interests outweigh the collective responsibility of serving communities,” Bhengu-Motsiri added.
The PA, led by Gayton McKenzie, has grown increasingly influential in coalition politics, particularly in Gauteng and the Western Cape. However, its confrontational stance has often brought it into conflict with larger parties. McKenzie recently warned that attempts to sideline Kunene would be met with a direct response, describing any such move as “a declaration of war.”
Analysts suggest the standoff underscores the fragility of coalition politics in South Africa’s metros, where governance is often held hostage by party rivalries. Political commentator Sandile Swana noted: “The ANC is trying to draw a line in the sand. If it gives in to the PA’s pressure over Kunene, it risks setting a precedent that could weaken its influence in other coalition negotiations.”
The ANC emphasized that it is not targeting the PA but rather insisting on accountability and stability. “We want to make it clear: our objection is not personal. It is about ensuring that coalition governments function effectively and in the best interest of the people,” Bhengu-Motsiri said.
With Johannesburg and other metros already plagued by service delivery challenges, the standoff raises concerns about further instability. Both parties have hinted at continuing talks, but the sharp exchange suggests that relations within the coalition remain strained.
