GNU Friction: DA's Grandstanding an 'Insult' to the Nation

Reneva Fourie

Life is hard for the vast majority of South Africans. Given the high unemployment rate, most are in survival mode. We are doing whatever is required to ensure that our loved ones are fed and safe while contending with rampant crime and rising drug and human trafficking. In this context, the least we expect from our politicians is integrity. We need service delivery and a stable political environment. Above all, we need a president who leads with strength and clarity.

That is why it was refreshing to see President Ramaphosa take decisive action for once. The removal of Andrew Whitfield from his position as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition for travelling abroad without permission was long overdue. He had participated in a political party delegation to the United States (US), where they met with top American officials and reinforced lies propagated about South Africa’s transformation policies, especially land reform. 

Their conduct not only smears our reputation abroad. It damaged diplomatic relations with one of our key trade partners, jeopardising domestic development. It posed a threat to our sovereignty and security. It also compromised the smooth handover of the G20 chairpersonship from South Africa to the US. The impact of their actions was severe. The dismissal of Whitfield is a very light punishment for the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) disgraceful act of political sabotage.

Instead of showing remorse, the DA used the moment as an opportunity to grandstand. The party’s arrogance, its blatant disregard for governance processes and inability to recognise the seriousness of the offence are exhausting. They fail to demonstrate the humility and respect required of members of a Government of National Unity (GNU). 

The DA has repeatedly chosen to undermine the president. Their representatives refer to him by his first name in official communications. They challenge his authority at every turn and show little concern for the dignity of his office. This distorted sense of self-importance demonstrates disdain towards the president. It is also an insult to all South Africans.

What is most disturbing is the DA’s willingness to harm the country in its pursuit of power. Instead of strengthening democracy, they run to foreign governments and institutions whenever they fail to get their way at home. Their cosy relationship with the US and Israel has become a convenient route to bypass the democratic process and cast South Africa in a negative light.

 This behaviour is not new. It has been prevalent since the establishment of the GNU. The DA has consistently demonstrated that it believes the law applies only to others. When their actions are questioned, they cry foul. When their members are held accountable, they complain about political persecution. This is not in compliance with the rule of law. It is a double standard.

Steenhuisen’s reaction to Whitfield’s dismissal is a concrete example of the DA’s duplicity. He was informed well in advance that this decision was on the table. Yet when it was implemented, he acted as if it were a surprise. He accused the president of undermining the coalition agreement. He dared to say that he feels disrespected and issued ultimatums. When the president refused to cower to their demands, the DA backtracked. Their desire for power was greater than their honour. 

Instead, they decided to withdraw from the National Dialogue. While there is disagreement on the cost and format, there is general acceptance that public engagement and ownership are essential for the collective acceleration of the country’s socio-economic advancement. Having committed to the dialogue in writing, the DA is now dismissing it as a waste of time. This is a betrayal of the public and of the agreements that brought the unity government into being. 

Furthermore, the DA threatened to initiate a vote of no confidence in the president. It once again sought to create chaos, weaken public trust in leadership, and destabilise the country for narrow party gain. Having suddenly realised just how irresponsible that threat is, it has now also been withdrawn, trapping the government in endless court battles instead.

South Africans are tired of leaders who place their egos ahead of the nation. Tired of the noise. Tired of the never-ending circus of threats, ultimatums and name-calling. We face daily struggles that do not allow for political drama. Food insecurity, the high cost of living, crime and joblessness are real and persistent problems. These cannot be solved while elected politicians behave like squabbling children. The government is not a playground. It is a place for responsible leadership and mature decision-making.

We do not expect miracles. We know the problems are complex. However, we expect those who have been given the responsibility to govern to take it seriously. That includes respecting democratic processes and the offices of the state. It means engaging in dialogue even when it is uncomfortable. It means disagreeing without tearing the house down. And above all, it means remembering that governance is not about promoting party-political power. It is about improving the quality of life of citizens.

The DA must make a choice. It can be part of building a better South Africa, or it can continue on its current path of obstruction, grandstanding and political sabotage. If it chooses the latter, then it should not be surprised when South Africans stop listening. We are looking for solutions, not tantrums. We are looking for accountability, not arrogance.

President Ramaphosa has taken a small but meaningful step in the right direction. He must now go further. He must act swiftly and consistently in holding all members of government accountable. He must reinforce the principle that no one is above the collective goals of unity, service and integrity. If he does, the country will follow.

The time has come for calm, for order and for leadership that puts the people first. Let those who are unwilling to contribute step aside. Let those who are ready to serve do so with humility and focus. South Africa deserves nothing less.

* Dr Reneva Fourie is a policy analyst specialising in governance, development and security.

** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL, Independent Media or The African.