Mbalula urges maturity as PA threatens to exit GNU

ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has urged coalition partners in the Government of National Unity (GNU) to act with political maturity and avoid threatening to walk away when disagreements arise, following the Patriotic Alliance's (PA) ultimatum over political appointments in Johannesburg.

- HOPE NTANZI

Speaking to eNCA, Mbalula confirmed that the ANC had not yet met with the PA following its threat to leave the GNU by today if Kenny Kunene is not reinstated as MMC for Transport in the City of Johannesburg.

He said the matter is being handled by ANC structures in Gauteng together with coalition partners.

IOL reported that PA leader Gayton McKenzie announced he would resign as Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture today as part of the party's decision to withdraw from all governing coalitions with the ANC at national, provincial, and local levels.

McKenzie cited "repeated acts of bad faith, political betrayal, and disrespect" from ANC leaders, particularly in Gauteng.

He said the fallout began in Ekurhuleni, where the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) allegedly blocked the PA from joining the coalition.

In Johannesburg, the PA initially held two portfolios, Human Settlements and Roads & Transport, but agreed to give up one to the IFP for the sake of coalition stability. However, tensions escalated after Kunene resigned as MMC for Transport following public criticism

He emphasised that while the party respects the PA's right to raise concerns, political threats undermine the spirit of unity needed in the GNU.