Cape Town – The Government of National Unity (GNU) in South Africa is functioning smoothly, with a unified approach under strict directives from President Cyril Ramaphosa.
This was said by the Deputy Minister of Defence and UDM President Bantu Holomisa.
According to The Citizen, the deputy minister said that despite some policy differences, all members understand the need to work together without causing embarrassment to the government.
“Cyril was very forthright that nobody must behave in a way that will embarrass the whole Cabinet and government.
“I think we would be fooling ourselves if we don’t agree that since the GNU, there seems to be competition among the departments who want to be seen to be doing work.
“The economy, the markets and business confidence seem to be saying we are doing well,” the report quoted Holomisa as saying.
In July, Ramaphosa described the cabinet lekgotla as highly productive and unified, with consensus on key issues.
The inaugural meeting of the government of national unity focused on economic reforms, job creation, and disaster relief efforts amid recent flooding.
“There was great synergy, there was no dissenting voice. On the issues discussed we found we had common purpose, we were unified in our message, in our intent, in our commitment to take South Africa forward,” he said.
President @CyrilRamaphosa says the cabinet Lekgotla was fruitful. @PresidencyZA #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/YryoDlbVQM
— Sophie Mokoena (@Sophie_Mokoena) July 15, 2024
Ramaphosa described the statement of intent as “the glue that holds us all together”.
“The constitution is the overarching view and we all subscribed to its values, its principles. We combined around that and started plotting what needs to be done to advance the lives of the people of South Africa in accordance with the priorities set out in the statement of intent,” he said.
According to Times Live, ministers at the time, emphasised the need for inclusive growth, addressing energy challenges, municipal debt to Eskom, and preparations for upcoming local government elections.
While disagreements exist on policies like the National Health Insurance and Bela legislation, the GNU members continue to work collectively and provide strong opposition oversight in Parliament.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
