Political parties expected to ramp up talks this weekend amid ANC's GNU offer
On the face of it, many believe a Government of National Unity (GNU) is doable because it’s been done once before.
The Democratic Alliance’s (DA) KwaZulu-Natal Rescue South Africa tour campaign at the Currie Stadium in Durban on 11 May 2024. Picture: Xanderleigh Dookey Makhaza/Eyewitness News
CAPE TOWN - As political parties are expected to crank up their talks this weekend on whether they can partner with the African National Congress (ANC) to run the government, two political veterans say many factors are at play.
Tony Leon, the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) chief negotiator in these talks, and former African National Congress (ANC) Minister, Trevor Manuel, point out the situation was very different from when a Government of National Unity (GNU) was last formed over 30 years ago.
While the DA and Inkatha Freedom Partysay (IFP) are prepared to steer coalition talks in the direction of such a formation - the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are not interested in any partnership that involves the DA or Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus).
On the face of it, many believe a GNU is doable because it’s been done once before.
However, veteran politicians have pointed out that in 1994, the GNU was legislated in the interim Constitution - allowing parties with at least 10% of the vote to opt in.
Former DA leader Tony Leon says the GNU of the past also had its shortcomings.
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"Initially it was successful. But the GNU isn’t also a brilliant example because effectively, it stopped after two years. So if you are wanting something that’s going to have longer legs, that might not be the best example to look at.''
Manuel said the ANC is also in a much-weakened negotiating position now, compared to its heyday with only 40% of the vote.
"The key must be the quality of public services and what happens in the lives of people, key must be a commitment by everyone who participates against every vestige of corruption. Key must also be to follow through and sure there are prosecutions for wrongdoing."
While Manuel said respect for the Constitution would be paramount for a successful GNU, Leon added that good faith and leadership would be necessary.