South Africa’s coalition government remains intact despite tensions, navigating its political landscape with strategic compromises rather than collapse.
At a Glance
- South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) is a coalition between the ANC and DA.
- The GNU serves as a stabilizing force, avoiding radical opposition coalitions.
- Divergences in the coalition stem from ideological differences and policy disagreements.
- The coalition acts as a platform for both parties to prepare for local elections.
Coalition Composition
The Government of National Unity (GNU) in South Africa consists of the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA). This coalition formed after the ANC lost its parliamentary majority, requiring a political alliance to maintain governance. Though described as an “unhappy marriage” due to public disagreements, neither party has opted for dissolution.
South Africa's political marriage of convenience avoids divorce – just https://t.co/0jlk8db3fU
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) July 3, 2025
The consideration is largely due to the potential political damage and risks associated with provoking a “Doomsday coalition” with radical opposition parties.
The coalition positions itself as a political middle ground and stabilizing force, especially welcomed by the business community. Despite internal disputes, the GNU demonstrates a commitment to cooperation, navigating political turbulence with strategic dialogue between President Cyril Ramaphosa (ANC) and DA leader John Steenhuisen.
Watch a report: South Africa’s political marriage of convenience avoids Divorce!
Internal Tensions and Public Disagreements
Within the GNU, ideological differences manifest in conflicts over policies. The ANC advocates for a transformation agenda, while the DA often resists these moves, opposing controversial legislation like the Expropriation Act. Such policy divergences have led to legal actions by the DA against fragments of the government’s agenda.
“The president’s refusal to act against corruption within his own ranks, but singling out as a priority a DA minister risks confirming that his oft-repeated public commitment to clean governance is a sham” – Steenhuisen – BBC News.
Recently, President Ramaphosa dismissed DA Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield, provoking protest from the DA. Communication breakdowns and a lack of conflict resolution mechanisms are noted issues, complicating the coalition’s dynamics. In response to alleged corruption, Steenhuisen has even threatened a vote of no confidence in Ramaphosa, highlighting the fragility of their alliance.
Future Uncertainties and Elections
As internal DA divisions emerge, with factions criticizing ANC’s alleged corruption, the GNU faces challenges maintaining unity. Ramaphosa’s recent cancellation of a trip to Spain underscores the coalition’s delicate future. However, both parties appear committed to utilizing the GNU as a campaign platform ahead of upcoming local government elections. This coalition serves more than a shared administrative duty; it’s a battleground for ideological assertion and political strategy.
