Government of convenience, not unity

DEMOCRATIC DISSONANCE

- CLYDE N S RAMALAINE

SINCE the 2024 national elections, South Africa has been governed by a coalition misleadingly branded as a Government of National Unity (GNU).

This alliance excludes major opposition parties like uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) but accommodates much smaller parties like the PA.

Despite its name, the coalition resembles a Grand Coalition formed out of electoral necessity, and political machinations, not ideological consensus.

This dissonance is visible in policy disputes, most glaringly in the lack of a unified foreign policy, especially on South Africa’s stance toward Israel.

While the term “GNU” is invoked by the state and its coalition members, some of us have persistently argued that it inaccurately describes the coalition's identity and structure. The 7th Administration, inaugurated in June 2024, has already faced serious internal tensions - including over the National Budget; BELA Bill; Expropriation and NHI Bills; and the ANC being accused of unilateralism, after Ramaphosa claimed the ANC remained “in charge” despite lacking a majority.