Helen Zille, the Democratic Alliance (DA) federal chairperson, has recently made some bold accusations against President Cyril Ramaphosa. According to Zille, Ramaphosa is using smaller parties in the government of national unity (GNU) as proxies to further the agenda of the African National Congress (ANC).
During a media briefing, Zille claimed that every party in the coalition government, with the exception of the ANC and the DA, owes its position to Ramaphosa’s goodwill. She went on to state that ministers, deputy ministers, and committee chairs must please the president in order to secure their positions.
Zille criticized the ANC’s tactic of co-opting smaller parties, creating a united front that supports the ruling party on all decisions. She believes this shields the ANC from political battles with the DA. In contrast, Zille emphasized that the DA’s role in the GNU was secured by the 3.5 million South Africans who voted for the party in the previous general elections.
The tension between the ANC and the DA has been evident on various issues, including the Bela Act and the recent Expropriation Act signed by President Ramaphosa. The DA’s ministers, such as Siviwe Gwarube and Dean MacPherson, have expressed concerns about implementing laws that contradict their party’s policies.
Some members of the DA feel that Ramaphosa deliberately assigned problematic ministries to the party to alienate its voters. However, ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula dismissed these claims, stating that the DA had chosen its portfolios during negotiations.
Despite the challenges, the DA has expressed a willingness to compromise within the coalition government. However, they remain steadfast in upholding the Constitution and will not compromise on matters that undermine it.
DA leader John Steenhuisen has emphasized the importance of open communication and dialogue with Ramaphosa. While the party has not yet considered leaving the GNU, they expect mutual respect and cooperation from the ANC.
Steenhuisen was scheduled to meet with Ramaphosa to discuss the recent expropriation law, highlighting the ongoing discussions and tensions within the coalition government. The DA remains committed to finding common ground while standing firm on their principles.
