Tensions between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA) have reached a critical stage as the ANC issues a deadline for the DA to accept new cabinet proposals. The clock is ticking as the parties strive to finalize the composition of the Government of National Unity (GNU).
The African National Congress (ANC) has given the Democratic Alliance (DA) a deadline of 5 p.m. on Sunday to accept new cabinet proposals. Negotiations between the two parties have been protracted, with both sides striving to find a middle ground that satisfies their demands.
Sources within the ANC have disclosed that the DA initially demanded seven ministerial positions, including key portfolios like Water and Sanitation, Communications, Minerals and Energy, Education, Public Service and Administration, and Health. Furthermore, the DA sought to secure the post of Deputy President for its leader, John Steenhuisen. However, after extensive discussions, the DA's demands have been reduced to five ministerial positions.
"While we are willing to compromise, we cannot accede to all of the DA's demands," stated a senior ANC source. "We have counter-offered with five ministries, and we believe this is a fair arrangement."
President Cyril Ramaphosa is reportedly considering expanding his cabinet to accommodate the GNU partners, potentially offering deputy minister roles to representatives from smaller parties. This move aims to ensure that all partners feel adequately accommodated within the government structure. An ANC insider mentioned, "There is a possibility of expanding the cabinet to ensure all partners are adequately accommodated."
The ongoing negotiations have taken place amidst heightened tensions between the ANC and the DA over the past two weeks. A public feud between Helen Zille, the DA's Federal Chairperson, and ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has further strained relations. The disagreement revolves around the interpretation of the GNU's statement of intent, with Zille accusing Mbalula of not thoroughly reading the agreement before signing it.
Moreover, two racially charged incidents involving DA Members of Parliament have added fuel to the fire, sparking outrage and exacerbating the already delicate relationship between the parties.
President Ramaphosa is expected to announce his cabinet on Sunday or, at the latest, on Monday, signaling a crucial step forward in the formation of the GNU.
Within the DA, discussions are circulating among shadow ministers, who anticipate automatic appointments as ministers in the GNU, depending on the posts allocated to the party. However, this assumption has been challenged, with one source clarifying, "They think they can just take a position, but it simply does not work like that."
The ANC's co-governance has become a necessity following its disappointing performance in the 2024 general elections. As a result, the upcoming Cabinet will mark the first time since 1994 that it comprises members from other political parties.
The GNU partners, which include the ANC, DA, Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Patriotic Alliance (PA), GOOD, Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), and the United Democratic Movement (UDM), have been engaging in closed-door negotiations since the signing of the statement of intent last Friday.
Anticipation is mounting as the DA's senior leadership structure is expected to be considered for Cabinet positions. Party leader John Steenhuisen is likely to be given a senior Cabinet post, reflecting his prominent role. Meanwhile, Ivan Meyer, the party's federal chairperson, has already assumed a position in the Western Cape government as the MEC for Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism. However, there is a chance that he may be elevated to the National Assembly to serve as a national minister.
