Cape Town — Political newcomers, Rise Mzansi, welcomed the decision to include as many parties as possible in the Government of National Unity (GNU) but was disappointed that the cabinet had been enlarged.
Following Ramaphosa’s cabinet announcement on Sunday evening, he revealed the GNU was comprised of 32 ministers and 43 deputies, as some ministieries received two deputy positions.
In a statement, party leader Songezo Zibi, said the party was happpy to be part of the GNU but never made any demands for executive positions, nor was it offered any executive positions.
He said the GNU offers a unique opportunity for collaboration and to influence for implementation of the issues found in the RISE Mzansi people’s manifesto and said his party would not shy away from holding the national executive accountable.
“Rise Mzansi therefore looks forward to playing an active role in elevating the status of Parliament and ensuring that the president, deputy president, ministers and deputy ministers act uphold the Constitution, act with integrity, and spend the people’s money correctly.” he said.
“Our participation in the GNU does not mean we will rubber stamp all decisions of the executive. We will scrutinise all pronouncements and decisions of the executive, and where it is in the best interests of the people of South Africa, we will lend our support. Moreover, we will also push to ensure that there is proper parliamentary oversight over the Presidency; the mechanisms of which the rules committee has already begun exploring,” he added.
[MEDIA STATEMENT] RISE Mzansi will not shy away from holding the National Executive accountable and fighting for the people – By RISE Mzansi National Leader, and member of Parliament @SongezoZibi #RISEMzansi #ForThePeopleByThePeople #Cabinet pic.twitter.com/jHa5zrleqt
— RISE Mzansi (@Rise_Mzansi) June 30, 2024
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
