In recent weeks, there has been a growing chorus of voices within the African National Congress (ANC) calling for the Democratic Alliance (DA) to exit the Government of National Unity (GNU). This call has been met with mixed reactions, with some applauding the move while others have expressed concern over the potential consequences.
The GNU was formed in 2009, following the hotly contested 2008 general election, in an effort to bring stability and unity to the country. The ANC, as the majority party, formed a coalition with the DA, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and the Congress of the People (COPE). This was seen as a historic moment, as it marked the first time in South Africa’s democratic history that opposition parties were included in the government.
However, over the years, the relationship between the ANC and the DA has become strained and many within the ANC now believe that it is time for the DA to exit the GNU. This sentiment has been echoed by various ANC officials, including Secretary-General Ace Magashule and Deputy President David Mabuza.
One of the main reasons cited for the call for the DA to exit the GNU is the fundamental ideological differences between the two parties. The ANC is a liberation movement with a strong focus on social justice and economic transformation, while the DA is a liberal party with a more market-driven approach. This has led to clashes and disagreements within the government, which has hindered progress and caused frustration among ANC members.
Furthermore, the DA’s recent actions and statements have caused concern within the ANC. The party’s decision to take the City of Cape Town to court over the use of the term “coloured” in official documents has been seen as a deliberate attempt to undermine the ANC’s efforts to promote unity and non-racialism. The DA’s continued opposition to land expropriation without compensation, a key ANC policy, has also caused tension within the GNU.
But perhaps the most pressing reason for the call for the DA to exit the GNU is the upcoming 2019 general election. With less than a year to go, the ANC is gearing up for what is expected to be a fiercely contested election. Many within the party believe that the presence of the DA in the GNU is hindering the ANC’s ability to fully implement its policies and showcase its achievements. They argue that without the DA, the ANC will be able to govern more effectively and prove to the electorate why they should be given another term in office.
In light of these concerns, it is understandable why many within the ANC are calling for the DA to exit the GNU. However, it is important to note that the decision to include the DA in the government was not taken lightly. It was a strategic move aimed at promoting unity and cooperation among political parties. While there have been challenges, the GNU has also achieved significant successes, such as the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) and the establishment of the National Planning Commission.
Therefore, any decision to exit the GNU must be carefully considered and should not be taken lightly. The ANC must also be mindful of the potential consequences of such a move. The DA’s exit could lead to instability and uncertainty, which could have a negative impact on the country’s economy and social cohesion.
In addition, the call for the DA to exit the GNU must not be seen as an attempt to exclude opposition parties from the government. South Africa’s democracy is built on the principle of multiparty democracy and it is important to have diverse voices and perspectives represented in the government. The ANC must continue to engage with opposition parties in a constructive manner and work towards finding common ground for the betterment of the country.
In conclusion, while the call for the DA to exit the GNU is understandable, it must be approached with caution and careful consideration. The ANC must continue to strive for unity and cooperation among all political parties in order to move the country forward. As we approach the 2019 general election, it is important for all parties to put aside their differences and work towards a common goal – the betterment of South Africa and its people.
