South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) faces renewed strain as its two largest partners, the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), trade blame over the U.S. government’s imposition of 30% tariffs on South African exports. The tariffs, which took effect on August 7, have intensified long-simmering tensions between the parties, with the ANC accusing the DA of undermining economic transformation by advocating for the scrapping of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policies.
Tariffs Spark Economic Concerns
The ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) member Mzwandile Masina confirmed that the party has directed the government to implement support measures for affected businesses. “We’ve emphasized our preference to continue negotiating with the U.S.,” Masina said, acknowledging the tariffs’ potential to disrupt trade relations and threaten jobs. Approximately 134,000 jobs linked to U.S.-South African trade could be at risk, with 600 U.S. companies operating in the country.
The ANC-led government is exploring financial relief packages, export support, and labor protections to cushion the blow. However, Masina admitted the situation remains precarious, with negotiations ongoing to mitigate further fallout.
ANC vs. DA: Ideological Warfare
The ANC has sharply criticized the DA for its stance on B-BBEE, framing the opposition party as “anti-transformation.” The DA has argued that the policy has failed and should be reformed or abolished, a position the ANC claims exacerbates international perceptions of South Africa as unstable.
Masina also condemned DA leaders for allegedly “badmouthing” the country abroad, suggesting their rhetoric may have contributed to the U.S. tariffs. The ANC’s Secretary-General recently declared the party would not “trade sovereignty for threats,” a defiant response to U.S. pressure, including potential sanctions on ANC leaders.
GNU Reset: ANC Seeks New Allies
Amid the infighting, the ANC is reconsidering its GNU partnerships. Masina revealed that the party is engaging with other political groups—including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party—to stabilize the coalition. While the DA remains part of the GNU for now, Masina described the relationship as “not permanent,” citing ideological clashes and the DA’s “opposition-like conduct.”
The ANC’s proposed “reset” involves expanding the GNU to include smaller parties, though Masina insisted the DA would not be expelled outright. “We are resetting the button,” he said, signaling a potential shift in coalition dynamics.
Corruption Crackdown and Social Media Backlash
The interview also touched on corruption, with Masina defending the ANC’s record after Public Works Minister Sihle Zikalala filed criminal charges against a suspended CEO. While some on social media have expressed sympathy for the accused, Masina declined to comment, stating the matter was not discussed in NEC meetings.
What’s Next?
As South Africa grapples with economic pressures and political discord, the ANC’s next moves—whether in negotiations with the U.S., realigning the GNU, or addressing internal corruption—will be critical. With tensions high and livelihoods at stake, the stability of the unity government hangs in the balance.