By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) said on Tuesday, that it was willing to discuss power sharing with its bigger partner in the coalition partner, African National Congress (ANC).
DA leader John Steenhuisen made this call during a media briefing on Tuesday amid the impasse with the ANC over a budget proposal to hike VAT by 1% over the next two years.
“The DA has been clear and consistent about our position on VAT inside government and outside government. Not once has the DA gone outside of the GNU to lobby support for our position, which is what the ANC did, defining itself outside the GNU,” Steenhuisen said.
He said in a statement that his party has provided the president with a comprehensive set of proposals that will unlock growth and jobs.
“These are real, practical solutions that are necessary and foundational to secure South Africa’s fiscal future, and we are ready to implement them. We look forward to discussing a clear reform agenda for growth and jobs with the ANC.”
Steenhuisen also emphasised that the intent of entering into the GNU with the ANC was for the implementation of bold, pro-growth reforms that create jobs and restore fiscal stability.
“We wanted shared governance that prioritises delivery and economic recovery over political convenience.”
Steenhuisen’s remarks came as ANC secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, noted that they too were willing to talk to all parties.
“The GNU requires high levels of maturity and revolutionary discipline, and it was never going to be an easy journey, “Mbalula said.
The rand has fallen sharply amid investor concerns that the alliance’s collapse could push the ANC to seek support from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to stay in power.
The rand remained under pressure on Tuesday after sliding to its weakest level against the dollar in more than a year the day before, amid a broader market reaction to US President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs. Some says the currency is more vulnerable to external events than domestic political developments.
The DA has said it won’t make a decision on staying in the government before the outcome of a court case the party brought to halt the budget legislation, with the hearing scheduled to start on April 22.
Next year’s municipal elections is a key consideration, with some insiders worried that the DA won’t have a good story to tell voters unless it returns to the opposition.
Another factor is a DA leadership conference ahead of the vote, where Steenhuisen may face criticism for his role in backing the move to join the GNU — an alignment that could spell the end of his stewardship.