In the ever-intensifying negotiations for a government of national unity (GNU), ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa and DA leader John Steenhuisen engaged in a crucial meeting on Friday afternoon. The much-anticipated discussion aimed to break the impasse that has plagued negotiations for a government of national unity (GNU) in recent weeks, as both parties jostle for coveted Cabinet positions. Despite reports suggesting a collapse in talks, the persistent efforts of the ANC and DA to find common ground signal a determination to establish a stable government.
Confirming the ongoing negotiations, Steenhuisen emphasized the DA's commitment to finding a resolution, stating, "It is a process, and the DA is committed to finding a fair deal that leads to a stable government in which the DA can play a meaningful role."
However, insiders close to Ramaphosa believe that the DA's hunger for power may compel them to swallow their pride and accept the president's offer. The ANC leader is set to present his final proposal to the DA before making a public announcement, indicating a last-ditch effort to bridge the gap between the two parties.
A reliable source within Ramaphosa's inner circle shared insight with Celeb Gossip News, suggesting that the DA's desperation to avoid returning to the opposition benches might play a significant role in their decision-making process. Furthermore, another close associate of the president expressed optimism, affirming that the negotiations were not about personal preferences but rather the greater good of the nation.
Recently, the DA's fervent pursuit of power was laid bare in a letter penned by leader Helen Zille, which demanded ministerial, deputy ministerial, and director-general positions. The leaked correspondence revealed the party's unwavering determination to secure influential positions within the future government. Ramaphosa, an experienced negotiator, responded with a scathing letter accusing Steenhuisen of shifting the goalposts and attempting to establish an illegal "parallel government" that would operate outside the constitutional framework.
The tension between the ANC and the DA escalated when the latter demanded two additional Cabinet posts, which reportedly angered Ramaphosa and the ANC negotiators. In response, the president withdrew a crucial post related to trade and industry from the initial offer, demonstrating his unwillingness to accommodate the DA's increasing demands.
Ramaphosa's firm and assertive letter to Steenhuisen chastised the opposition leader for insisting on written correspondence, highlighting the ANC's engagement with other parties in the GNU negotiations. The president deemed Zille's letter offensive, condescending, and inconsistent with the Constitution, further straining the already fragile relationship between the two parties.
Expressing disappointment in the DA's shifting stance, Ramaphosa accused them of jeopardizing the foundation of a government of national unity by altering their demands after the ANC's final offer of six key Cabinet portfolios. The president rebuffed the DA's request for two additional portfolios, admonishing their attempt to expand their influence beyond what was initially proposed. Ramaphosa warned that such a move would constitute a breach of the statement of intent and even likened it to establishing a parallel government—an illegal course of action.
In his strongly worded letter, Ramaphosa firmly dismissed the DA's suggestions to unilaterally alter contractual arrangements of directors general and other contracts, asserting that such propositions were legally incompetent. He emphasized the need to focus on the task at hand—constituting a government of national unity—rather than being sidetracked by misguided proposals.
As negotiations for the GNU continue, South Africa eagerly anticipates Ramaphosa's announcement of his Cabinet colleagues, which will set the tone for the seventh administration's priorities. In the midst of the ongoing power struggles, the nation awaits the outcome of the ANC and DA negotiations, as the future of the country hangs in the balance.
