Mbalula Warns DA Amid Tensions in the Government of National Unity

Natalie Nyathi

Fikile Mbalula, the Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC), has warned the Democratic Alliance (DA) about ongoing tensions in the Government of National Unity (GNU). His comments come after President Cyril Ramaphosa dismissed Andrew Whitfield, the DA’s Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, for taking an unauthorized trip to the United States.

The DA has decided to stay in the GNU but has pulled out of the National Dialogue, calling it a “waste of time.” Mbalula mentioned that the ANC is taking the DA’s threats seriously, especially since DA chair Helen Zille has stated that the party has the numbers to challenge the government if needed.

Mbalula expressed confidence that the GNU would remain stable, saying:

“Even if the DA walks away, the GNU will not collapse. Several parties are eager to join and are already knocking on the door. The GNU is simply too powerful to fall apart.”

The political trouble began with Whitfield’s removal, which followed his participation in a DA delegation that met with U.S. lawmakers despite Ramaphosa’s warnings. This situation has increased tensions between the ANC and the DA and raises questions about the future of their coalition.

Mbalula noted that this conflict is not surprising given the history of issues within the GNU, which has faced many challenges since it started a year ago. The ANC is committed to keeping the coalition strong, even as the DA considers its role in the government.

These developments show how fragile the GNU is, as both parties try to manage their responsibilities amid disagreements and outside pressures.