South Africa's political landscape has become increasingly complicated as the two leading parties, the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), remain entangled in a coalition dubbed the Government of National Unity (GNU). Although marked by public disagreements, neither party dares to dissolve the partnership due to fears of repercussions among the electorate.
Despite a year filled with contentious moments, the coalition achieved a milestone earlier this year when Ramaphosa and Steenhuisen jointly addressed U.S. President Donald Trump over false claims concerning land issues affecting white farmers in South Africa. Their ability to stand together during that diplomatic encounter illustrated what their partnership could accomplish. However, their alliance has been anything but harmonious since.
The relationship between the ANC and DA bears the hallmarks of a loveless marriage where both parties exploit their alliances while keeping an eye on their individual ambitions. With the DA commenting frequently against the ANC’s governance strategies, including a recent proposal to expropriate land without compensation, tensions have bubbled to the surface. DA's Steenhuisen expressed frustration over Ramaphosa's unilateral decisions without proper consultation with party members in the GNU.
The coalition has faced a tumultuous period due to disputes over legislation that critics fear could harm the economy. As the ongoing tussle shadowed the coalition's effectiveness, Steenhuisen accused Ramaphosa of failing to condemn corruption within his ranks while simultaneously expecting loyalty from the DA.
The ideological divide clouds their governance strategy, complicating issues that arise in their coalition. Ramaphosa's discomfort with the DA’s criticisms—including recent legal actions and calls to remove ANC-associated ministers—complicates the stability of their union. The rift has led to conversations about potential motions of no confidence against the president in parliament amid signals of deteriorating trust between the parties.
Notably, Steenhuisen’s comments revealed capabilities for significant internal conflict resolutions have yet to materialize, stirring speculation about the longevity of their coalition. Analysts suggest that both parties remain hesitant to abandon the GNU, fearing backlash from voters and the possibility of being perceived as the instigators of a political fallout.
As South Africa approaches local government elections next year, both the ANC and DA must reckon with their flaws while maintaining the façade of unity. The future of the coalition hangs in the balance as divisions deepen, indicating that a real dialogue is necessary to save the partnership—if it can endure.
