political conflict:The growing conflict between South Africa’s ANC and DA within the Government of National Unity (GNU) could destabilize budget voting and governance as tensions rise over ministerial appointments and departmental budget votes.
ANC-DA Conflict in GNU Threatens Political Stability in South Africa
The escalating political conflict between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA) within South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) is posing a serious threat to political stability and effective governance. At the heart of the dispute is the issue of departmental budget votes and the integrity of certain ANC ministers, whom the DA has labeled as “compromised.”
According to Dr. Ntsikelelo Breakfast, a political analyst at the Nelson Mandela University’s Center for Security, Peace and Conflict Resolution, this clash could severely damage the fragile coalition and derail the country’s political momentum. Dr. Breakfast warns that continued tension may transform the GNU into a dysfunctional partnership, despite its original goal of promoting inclusive governance.
DA Issues Ultimatum to President Ramaphosa
Last week, the DA issued a strict 48-hour ultimatum to President Cyril Ramaphosa. The party demanded the dismissal of three ANC-aligned ministers:
- Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, Minister of Higher Education and Training
- Thembi Simelane, Minister of Human Settlements
- David Mahlobo, Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation
These demands followed the controversial dismissal of DA member Andrew Whitfield, who served as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition. In response, the DA declared it would no longer support departmental budget votes overseen by ANC ministers whom it deems unfit to serve.
This dramatic stance has escalated tensions in Parliament and raised questions about the long-term viability of the GNU.
ANC Response and Mutual Retaliation
The ANC responded by stating that it also reserves the right to reject budget votes led by DA ministers. However, the party has so far avoided retaliatory actions, signaling a cautious approach aimed at maintaining coalition stability. Nevertheless, the ANC made it clear that if the DA persists in its political maneuvers, they will reconsider their cooperative stance.
Dr. Ntsikelelo Breakfast drew a vivid analogy to describe the situation:
“They behave like a couple that claims to be married, but they sleep in separate rooms. Whether that marriage will succeed or not, I leave it to the Lord—but part of me thinks that it will.”
The metaphor reflects the growing perception that the alliance between the ANC and DA is more of a forced coexistence than a genuine partnership.
DA Accuses ANC of Political Vengeance
DA National Spokesperson Karabo Khakhau emphasized that any attempt by the ANC to withhold support from DA-led budgets would be viewed as political vengeance, not governance. Khakhau stated that the ANC’s reaction to the DA’s demands fails to prioritize the interests of the South African people, instead escalating political hostilities within the GNU.
Over the weekend, the DA reiterated its position: it will not support budgets led by ANC ministers it considers corrupt or compromised.
National Dialogue at Risk
One of the consequences of this political deadlock is the possible collapse of the August National Dialogue, which was designed to strengthen cooperation across party lines. Following the expiration of the DA’s 48-hour ultimatum, the party announced it would not only oppose specific budget votes but also withdraw from the upcoming dialogue.
This decision is viewed as a major setback for national reconciliation efforts. Political analyst Dr. Dale McKinley commented on the implications, stating that while the DA’s withdrawal is significant, it is not an insurmountable problem for the ANC.
Coalition Math: Can the GNU Function Without the DA?
Despite the DA’s withdrawal of support, the ANC still controls over 50% of the seats in Parliament through its coalition arrangements. According to Lawson Naidoo, Executive Secretary of the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, the overall budget has already been passed due to prior DA support for the fiscal framework.
However, departmental budget votes are a different matter. To ensure their passage, the ANC may need the backing of other smaller parties such as ActionSA, or seek compromise solutions within the GNU framework. Without such support, certain ministries may face administrative paralysis.
The Fragile Future of the Government of National Unity
The GNU was formed to ensure stability, inclusivity, and shared governance after contentious national elections. However, the recent feud between the ANC and DA exposes the cracks in this experimental coalition model.
If departmental budgets continue to be blocked due to party infighting, it could disrupt essential services such as:
- Higher education reform
- National housing projects
- Water and sanitation infrastructure
- Youth employment programs
These challenges directly affect millions of South Africans, raising public frustration over political gridlock.
Is This the End of the GNU?
The million-rand question is whether the GNU can survive this ongoing political clash. With trust between the ANC and DA deteriorating, analysts suggest that new negotiations and compromises will be essential if the GNU is to endure.
The DA appears determined to take a hardline stance on ethics and accountability, even at the cost of its role in governance. Meanwhile, the ANC must choose between upholding unity or protecting controversial ministers.
Conclusion: A Crossroads for South African Politics
The conflict between the ANC and DA marks a defining moment for South Africa’s political future. The success—or failure—of the Government of National Unity may shape how coalitions function in future administrations.
As the two leading parties navigate this political minefield, the people of South Africa wait anxiously for resolution. Whether this conflict results in collapse or compromise remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the integrity of governance is at stake.
For further reading:
- Official Government of South Africa Portal
- Nelson Mandela University – Center for Security, Peace and Conflict Resolution
- South African Parliament – Budget Votes Explained
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