HAS 'SECRETIVE' RETREAT UNITED GNU?

The 10 parties said leaders were unanimous that GNU is ‘strong’

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

THE Presidency has confirmed that the “secretive” two-day retreat at the Cradle of Humankind, where President Cyril Ramaphosa urged leaders of the Government of National Unity (GNU) to strengthen cooperation, has concluded.

The retreat, which brought together leaders from 10 political parties, focused on tackling unemployment, poverty, the cost of living, crime, corruption and the delivery of services.

According to the Presidency, the leaders met to reflect on progress in implementing the priorities identified in the GNU’s Statement of Intent, discuss national and international issues, and address critical challenges facing the country.

The meeting was led by Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile (ANC), and attended by John Steenhuisen (DA), Velenkosini Hlabisa (IFP), Gayton McKenzie (PA), Corné Mulder (FF Plus), Bantu Holomisa (UDM), Songezo Zibi (Rise Mzansi), Ganief Hendricks (Al Jama-ah), Mzwanele Nyhontso (PAC) and Brett Herron (Good).

In a joint media statement, the 10 parties said the leaders were unanimous that the GNU “is united and strong”.

“The meeting agreed that this forum of party leaders would meet regularly to provide strategic political direction to the work of the GNU”.

The statement acknowledged difficulties in the functioning of the GNU, most notably around the 2025 budget process. The DA, a member of the GNU, initially opposed the budget, but it was later passed.

“However, it has drawn important lessons from these experiences and will ensure more effective consultation in developing fiscal priorities and frameworks. All parties reaffirmed their full commitment to the GNU as a reflection of the will of voters as an instrument to advance the interests of all South Africans”.

The leaders said that over the 16 months since signing the Statement of Intent, the GNU has provided stability and leadership to the country.