Cape Town – The formation of the government of national unity (GNU) is progressing smoothly despite recent controversies, according to Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa.
A leaked letter from DA federal chair Helen Zille, demanding 11 Cabinet posts, sparked concerns about discord in GNU negotiations.
In reaction, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula criticised parties for specifying desired positions, emphasising that President Cyril Ramaphosa would allocate Cabinet roles.
According to The Citizen, Hlengwa, however, assured that negotiations were under control and dismissed claims of a crisis.
“There is no crisis within the GNU formation negotiations.
“In the letter people are talking about, the DA stated its demands. I don’t see anything wrong when some people at the negotiation table say what they are expecting to get.
This letter alone should have disqualified DA as a coalition partner. ANC indeed is dead wood. pic.twitter.com/PTxSHnr3cY
— MEHMET VEFA DAG (@AFRICANDEMOC) June 25, 2024
“Things that are happening during the negotiation don’t mean there are troubles within the formation of the new government,” the report quoted Hlengwa as saying.
Earlier this week, the DA called for equitable power sharing within the GNU.
According to SABC, Zille insisted that the ANC must recognise the DA as a crucial partner and grant it significant influence in the upcoming national executive cabinet.
Her remarks came as President Cyril Ramaphosa was yet to announce his new cabinet amidst demands from various political parties.
Zille said that the DA should not merely support the ANC but have real power to improve South Africans’ lives.
“We can’t be held to ransom. I mean the DA is a very serious partner in this. We can’t just be a walking stick to help the ANC continue as it has done before. We have to be able to have some real influence and power in the government to make life better for South Africans,” the report quoted Zille as saying.
Since the GNU’s establishment, ten political parties, including the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), GOOD Party, Patriotic Alliance (PA), Pan African Congress (PAC), United Democratic Movement (UDM), Freedom Front Plus (FF PLUS), and Al Jama-ah, have joined, with Rise Mzansi being the latest addition.
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Compiled byBetha Madhomu
