The Democratic Alliance (DA) has issued a stern warning to Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, declaring that they will withdraw from the provincial government of unity if he proceeds to announce his cabinet without their consent. Tensions have reached a boiling point as Lesufi races against the clock to unveil his executive council, with rumors circulating that only three portfolios would be allocated to the DA.
Sources with insider knowledge of the discussions reveal that the DA and Lesufi's camp have been engaged in intense negotiations, grappling with the crucial issue of proportionality in the allocation of executive posts and portfolios. The DA stands firm in their demand for meaningful representation and insists that any announcement made by Lesufi without their agreement should exclude their party entirely.
The DA accused the ANC of failing to sign a draft agreement that was prepared for their last meeting, effectively rendering the preceding discussions unofficial. The draft agreement proposed that the DA would receive three portfolios, but the DA pushed for four seats instead. The DA argued that such an agreement would reflect the will of the voters and the necessity for broader inclusion, aligning with the "statement of intent" signed by leaders of both parties for the government of national unity.
Insiders familiar with the matter disclosed that the ANC and DA proposed different seat allocations. They revealed, "Therefore, the discussion must start with the ANC having six seats and the other five allocated to the DA. Both parties would then sacrifice their seats to the three other parties in the unity government, like the IFP, except for parties with one or two MPLS."
Furthermore, it was discovered that Lesufi was expected to consult with Msimanga before extending invitations to other parties to join the government. However, the original agreement between the ANC and the DA, which formed the basis for the election of premier, speaker, and deputy speaker posts, was disrupted by the DA at the national level. The DA proposed that the ANC retain five seats, the DA receive four, and one seat be allocated to another partner in the unity government.
Sources close to the matter revealed that, following internal consultations, Lesufi was given the mandate to announce his executive council today in accordance with the original agreement, which stipulated that the DA would receive three seats. Talks were also reportedly ongoing regarding the legislature posts of chief whip, deputy chief whip, and the composition of portfolio committees.
As of the time of publication, neither the ANC nor the DA in Gauteng could be reached for comment. However, discussions between the parties were still underway late into the night in an attempt to break the deadlock and find a resolution to the escalating tensions.
The unfolding dispute between the DA and Lesufi has cast a shadow over the formation of the provincial government of unity, highlighting the challenges and complexities involved in power-sharing agreements. The outcome of these negotiations will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the governance and stability of Gauteng, as well as the delicate balance of political forces within the province.
