Political analysts from North-West University (NWU) have offered a range of opinions on the Government of National Unity (GNU), which recently marked its first 100 days in office.

The GNU, formed after the May 2024 elections, has received praise and criticism for its handling of governance under the unique coalition arrangement. Prof. André Duvenhage, a NWU political analyst, described the GNU’s initial term as a combination of both successes and failures. He highlighted that the transition to this new political structure has been challenging, and the public must adapt to the governance changes, new policy procedures, and protocols.

Duvenhage said while the GNU has managed to operate effectively in difficult circumstances, it faces significant challenges.

North-West University political analyst Prof. André Duvenhage. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

“One of the key issues is the appointment of personnel under the principles of proportional representation,” Duvenhage explained. “The ANC seems reluctant to fully embrace this principle. Additionally, Gauteng is not aligned with the GNU’s approach. We see figures like Panyaza Lesufi, the Premier of Gauteng, taking an independent direction, as evidenced by the ousting of Cilliers Brink as mayor of Tshwane. This creates asymmetrical coalitions that are problematic, and it underscores a lack of consensus within the largest structures of the ANC.”

Duvenhage warned that these challenges could lead to future conflicts between factions within the ANC, specifically the group aligned with President Cyril Ramaphosa and those led by figures like Lesufi.

Another NWU political analyst Kedibone Phago provided a more optimistic view as he emphasised the importance of the statement of intent developed at the inception of the GNU to guide decision-making and resolve disputes among political parties. Phago credited this framework with keeping the ANC, the DA, and other players within the GNU unified.

North-West University political analyst, Prof. Kedibone Phago. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

“The GNU has been vital for the country. It has shown that where there is political will, substantial progress can be made,” Phago said. “We’ve witnessed developments in several sectors of the economy, and some government departments have started to address issues that citizens have long been concerned about.”

Despite the positive developments, Phago expressed concern about challenges within municipalities, particularly metros such as Tshwane. He noted that tensions between senior politicians, such as the public disagreements on social media between the ANC Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula, and DA Chairperson, Helen Zille, could spill over and jeopardise the GNU arrangement if not managed carefully.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg