South Africa's ANC, DA resolve reported impasse over portfolio: summary
What we know
- Ramaphosa’s African National Congress (ANC) has said denied reports that negotiations with the Democratic Alliance (DA) are at risk of collapse following disagreements between the two over a trade and industry portfolio. The portfolio is important because it oversees the government’s flagship policy of boosting Black South Africans’ participation in the economy.
- As part of the Government of National Unity (GNU) arrangement, the ANC and DA formed a voter base of around 60% support with other parties also signing a document of intent.
- Media reports by the local platform IOL suggested that several leaked letters revealed a collapsed deal between the two following inconsistent negotiations and leaked letters. Ramaphosa, according to the report was accusing DA Leader John Steenhuisen of jeopardising the unified government with his requests.
- DA Federal Chairperson Helen Zille demanded more ministerial roles for the DA after the ANC offered six positions. The party wanted two more, suggesting additional portfolios.
- Ramaphosa reportedly accused the DA of shifting their demands. He stated that their latest proposals did not align with the agreed principles in the Statement of Intent. But in a new report by the Reuters, the ANC has said that issues had been resolved and negotiations have proceeded. Final arrangements are therefore being made.
What they said
A DA source told Reuters that they are still committed to honest and fair negotiations. "Our Federal Executive met yesterday late afternoon, early evening and it was resolved that we will continue to negotiate. So, at this point we are not at the point of drawing lines in the sand and giving final ultimatums," he said. ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, also announced on his X platform that the impasse has been resolved. “Almost done with GNU discussions," he wrote. "It will be done as promised."
