Cape Town – The Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, John Steenhuisen, has reportedly said that the “moonshot pact” goes beyond being solely an opposition to the African National Congress (ANC).
He described it as a proactive endeavour aimed at identifying solutions for the pressing issues in South Africa.
Seven political parties are expected to convene at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park on Wednesday to discuss the details of the moonshot pact and potential coalitions.
“We need a new government that cares about farmers and farmworkers who face surging crime, and that cares about small towns have been broken down by an uncaring ANC government.
“If the pact emerges with a compelling vision to reduce unemployment, end load shedding, grow our economy and tackle violent crime, then I ask that you get behind us,” The Citizen quoted Steenhuisen as saying.
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The convention discussing the pact will be chaired by William Gumede, a professor at Wits University.
Steenhuisen views the moonshot pact as an opportunity to defeat the ANC and prevent the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) from gaining power.
According to EWN, on the 25th of October, 1991, notable figures like Nelson Mandela, Chris Hani, and Helen Suzman gathered at this exact location in Kempton Park to inaugurate the convention that marked the beginning of South Africa’s journey towards democracy.
Steenhuisen said that the success of the moonshot pact convention would be a pivotal milestone in the nation’s history, comparable to the significance of the historic Codesa negotiations from years past.
The Codesa meetings mapped the forward to end apartheid in South Africa.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu