DA says no to MKP and EFF in GNU

DEMOCRATIC Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen is against the MK Party and the EFF joining the Government of National Unity (GNU).

Steenhuisen made the remarks on Monday in Johannesburg, as the DA unveiled its proposed changes to the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) Act, the Employment Equity Act, and the Expropriation Act - legislation the party has long criticised as problematic.

The DA, which is the largest partner in the GNU, has opposed several key policies introduced by the African National Congress (ANC), which leads the coalition. 

Tensions between the two parties have persisted since the GNU’s formation, with the DA at times threatening to withdraw.

His comments come after the ANC indicated plans to expand the GNU, with ongoing discussions involving other political parties, including the Jacob Zuma-led uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

Steenhuisen said: “I think it’s going to complicate things even further. We already have ten parties in the GNU. It’s one of the largest coalitions in the world.

“I think that there should rather be more energy and focus spent on improving relations among the parties within the GNU – particularly on how you consult, manage conflict and establish dispute resolution mechanisms, which to date remain unavailable.

“That is why every time there is a bit of frisson in the coalition, it blows up into a massive storm.”

He added: “No, we have not been consulted or spoken to about expanding the GNU, and obviously when that discussion comes, we will engage and express our views.

“But I know as well that these views are also shared by other partners in the GNU, who are concerned about expansion and would rather see improved working relations within the Government of National Unity.”

ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba said he had only heard media reports of the ANC’s intentions and that his party had not been approached directly by Luthuli House.

The DA and Freedom Front Plus, both GNU members, have strongly opposed any expansion of the coalition.

Both the MK party and the EFF have previously said they will not join the GNU, which currently includes the DA and Freedom Front Plus.