South Africa’s coalition government, led by President Ramaphosa, has weathered numerous disputes since its formation but remains intact. Key issues include language education and land reform policies, which have fueled tensions, particularly with the DA party. Despite these challenges, experts predict that the coalition will endure for its full term, illustrating a complex yet stable political landscape.
Since its formation seven months ago, South Africa’s coalition government, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has faced challenges yet remains functional. Several disputes, including disagreements over educational language policies and Ramaphosa’s comments on Russia, have emerged but have not threatened the coalition’s existence. “They think we are at each other’s throats. We are not. We continue to meet and talk,” Ramaphosa stated, addressing the situation following the signing of a contentious property expropriation bill.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), the coalition’s second-largest member, expressed frustration over Ramaphosa signing the expropriation bill without prior consultation. DA leader John Steenhuisen criticized this decision, asserting that such actions are detrimental to coalition dynamics. Nevertheless, the DA supports the need for land reform, acknowledging the historical context where most agricultural land is owned by white South Africans.
The coalition, which comprises ten parties, including the DA, emerged after the African National Congress (ANC) experienced a significant reduction in its voter base in the May elections. This collaboration is viewed as unexpected, given the DA’s historical rivalry with the ANC. Despite their differences, the coalition has contributed to increased stability amidst rising unemployment and crime rates, which exceeds 30%.
The DA is cognizant that withdrawing from the coalition may empower the radical-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and other populist parties that oppose the ANC. A scenario where the ANC aligns with these parties is termed a “doomsday coalition,” which the DA seeks to avert to preserve its influence. Editor-in-Chief Makhudu Sefara emphasized this point, indicating the DA’s commitment to compromise to maintain its political position.
Political analysts note the DA’s identity as a business-friendly party, which aligns with its motivations to remain in the government. Ramaphosa’s leadership is delicately balanced within the ANC, where factions are keen on demonstrating independence from the DA. Analysts suggest that the existing coalition will likely survive even beyond the 2027 ANC leadership elections, regardless of Ramaphosa’s fate.
The prevailing sentiment among analysts is that the Government of National Unity (GNU) is anticipated to endure its full five-year term, notwithstanding internal conflicts and the challenges it faces. Susan Booysen noted that even as local elections loom, the coalition can withstand tensions, proving its resilience despite underlying difficulties.
The article discusses the complexities and dynamics of South Africa’s coalition government formed after the May elections, highlighting inter-party relationships and political strategies. It underscores the coalition’s significance in promoting stability within a challenging socio-economic context, characterized by high unemployment and crime rates. The relationship between the DA and the ANC illustrates the delicate balance of power among rival parties working towards common governance goals.
The current coalition government in South Africa, although strained by various disagreements, is likely to persist amid significant socio-political challenges. The dynamics between the ANC and the DA reflect a conscious effort to bridge partisan divides for national stability. As Ramaphosa navigates his leadership amidst factional pressures, the coalition appears resilient and poised to continue its term despite the opposition.
Original Source: www.voanews.com