The leaders of the ten political parties comprising South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) have issued a strong statement reaffirming their commitment to the coalition. The declaration follows a productive two-day retreat held over the past weekend at the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng, which focused on the progress of the GNU’s key priorities. Formed after the 2024 General Elections, the GNU, now in its 16th month, has been touted by its partners as having “provided stability and leadership to the country” in a new era of multi-party cooperation.
The joint statement, released on Monday, November 3, 2025, emphasized that the leaders were “unanimous that the GNU is united and strong.” This resolve comes despite recent public disagreements that have tested the coalition’s foundation. A key point of contention discussed at the retreat was the fiscal planning process earlier this year. As an official from the Presidency noted, the leaders “recognized difficulties at times in the functioning of the GNU, most notably around the 2025 budget process.” This refers to the contentious negotiations in March 2025 that saw the budget speech postponed, highlighting the complexities of consensus-building across diverse political ideologies.
Acknowledging and Learning from Challenges
To address the consultation shortcomings that surfaced during the budget debate, the parties have agreed on a path forward. The joint statement confirmed that the GNU “has drawn important lessons from these experiences and will ensure more effective consultation in developing fiscal priorities and frameworks.” The leaders also ratified the Terms of Reference for the GNU Clearing House Mechanism, a structure led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, which is critical to ensuring the coalition “functions optimally, in line with the Statement of Intent.” This mechanism is designed to resolve policy and related areas of possible divergence, thereby reducing the potential for future public spats.
Looking ahead, the GNU leaders committed to accelerating action on pressing national issues. The coalition remains focused on resolving the core concerns of the South African people, which include “unemployment, poverty, the cost of living, crime, corruption and delivery of services.” Specific urgent attention will be directed towards developing a food security plan and intensifying the fight against the rise in gangsterism and organized crime. “All parties reaffirmed their full commitment to the GNU as a reflection of the will of voters as an instrument to advance the interests of all South Africans,” the statement concluded, signaling a renewed vigor to deliver on the mandate given by the electorate.
