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the African National Congress (ANC) is facing a pivotal moment following its loss of majority in the recent elections after three decades in power.
The ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) met in Johannesburg to navigate a post-election deadlock and decide on forming a new government.
The ANC, despite losing its majority, remains the largest party and is now seeking some form of agreement with other political parties to govern Africa’s most industrialized country.
There’s a preference within the ANC for a government of national unity, which would bring together various political parties in a broad agreement rather than forming a direct coalition with the main opposition, the Democratic Alliance (DA).
Fikile Mbalula, the ANC’s Secretary-General, indicated the party’s inclination towards this unity government, though he expected considerable debate and disagreement within the NEC. The ANC’s proposal for a government of national unity comes amidst challenges and resistance from grassroots ANC structures and political allies, such as South Africa’s trade unions.
We want to bring everybody on board,” ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula said before Thursday’s meeting, which was likely to last all day. Mbalula said a government of national unity was being proposed to the NEC to decide on, but he expected there to be debate and disagreement.
The urgency is driven by the need to seat the newly elected Parliament by June 16, with one of its initial tasks being the election of a president. This decision is critical as it will determine whether Cyril Ramaphosa, seeking a second term, will be reelected.
Initially, a coalition between the ANC and the centrist DA seemed likely due to their combined majority, but this option faces resistance from within the ANC and from its political allies. The DA itself opposes a wide-ranging agreement that includes certain parties, such as the populist MK Party and the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
The ANC’s NEC, comprising more than 80 top officials, holds the responsibility to decide on the direction the party will take. The outcome will shape South Africa’s political landscape and the future governance of the country, marking a significant transition from its long-standing majority rule.
This situation reflects the complex negotiations and challenges facing South Africa’s political leaders as they navigate a new era of governance in the country.