ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula has expressed concerns over the potential inclusion of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the government of national unity (GNU), warning that it could lead to the demise of the ANC.
Speaking at a media briefing at Luthuli House, Mbalula responded to EFF leader Julius Malema’s threat to support a motion of no confidence in President Cyril Ramaphosa, criticizing the EFF’s approach to governance as reckless and arrogant.
Mbalula emphasized the dangers of allowing the EFF into the GNU, stating, “He’s too dangerous because he comes in many colours, he is not straight. When we deal with the Democratic Alliance (DA), we deal with a clear thing, we deal with criminals that we see.”
The strained relationship between the ANC and the DA, exacerbated by a now-scrapped VAT increase, has brought the ruling coalition to the brink. The standoff over the budget issue has raised questions about the morality of the DA’s participation in the unity government.
Mbalula highlighted the need for coalition partners to work together to avoid future budget conflicts, noting that the ANC is not afraid to have differing opinions within the GNU. However, he warned that Malema’s threats should not be taken lightly, as the ANC lacks the majority to defend a motion of no confidence on its own.
Malema’s warning that a successful motion against Ramaphosa could result in the DA’s John Steenhuisen becoming president was met with skepticism by Mbalula, who emphasized the complexities of the current political landscape and the era of coalitions.
While Malema’s threats may pose challenges for the ANC, Mbalula remains steadfast in the party’s commitment to navigating the intricacies of coalition politics and upholding its principles in the face of opposition.
