President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken steps to mend strained relations with the Democratic Alliance (DA) in a bid to secure support for the passing of critical departmental budgets and the Appropriation Bill. This comes after weeks of tension within the Government of National Unity (GNU), marked by the DA’s refusal to back budgets linked to ministers accused of corruption.
Budget Impasse and DA’s Demands
The DA had previously blocked budgets for departments led by ANC ministers Thembi Simelane (Human Settlements) and Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane (Higher Education and Training), citing allegations of misconduct. In a significant move, Ramaphosa dismissed Nkabane this week, a decision widely seen as an attempt to appease the DA ahead of the parliamentary vote.
However, the DA remains adamant that Simelane should also be removed, threatening to withhold support for her department’s budget unless she is axed.
ANC Internal Divisions Over GNU Future
Meanwhile, the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) postponed a crucial meeting to assess the stability of the GNU alliance. Some members pushed for the DA’s expulsion, accusing the party of undermining governance by voting against the budget, withdrawing from the National Dialogue, and contradicting Ramaphosa on foreign policy.
Other factions within the ANC have reportedly suggested approaching the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) as a potential replacement for the DA in the coalition—a move that would dramatically shift South Africa’s political landscape.
Legal Challenge Over Acting Minister Appointment
The DA has also raised constitutional concerns over Ramaphosa’s appointment of an acting minister from outside Cabinet, threatening legal action if the decision is not reversed. DA leaders argue that the Constitution mandates that acting ministers must be drawn from existing Cabinet members.
Ramaphosa’s Plea for Caution
Despite internal ANC pressure, Ramaphosa has urged his party not to force the DA out of the GNU, warning that such a move would be a “grave mistake.” In a recent interview, he stated that the DA must decide on its own whether to remain in the coalition.
However, Julius Malema, leader of the EFF, has reiterated his party’s refusal to work with the DA, declaring, “Our stance is very clear—we can’t go into coalition with the DA.”
What Next?
As Parliament prepares to vote on the budgets and Appropriation Bill, all eyes are on whether Ramaphosa’s concessions will be enough to secure DA support—or if the GNU’s fragile alliance will collapse, triggering a new wave of political instability.
For now, the ball is in the DA’s court. Will they accept Ramaphosa’s olive branch, or will they walk away, leaving the future of South Africa’s coalition government in jeopardy?