Presidency Leaders in Government of National Unity

The leaders of the 10 political parties that make up the Government of National Unity (GNU) recently wrapped up a successful two-day retreat at the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng. The aim of the meeting was to review the progress made in implementing the priorities outlined in the GNU Statement of Intent, as well as to discuss pressing national and international issues affecting the country.

Among those in attendance were President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy President Paul Mashatile (ANC), John Steenhuisen (DA), Velenkosini Hlabisa (IFP), Gayton McKenzie (PA), Corné Mulder (FF Plus), Bantu Holomisa (UDM), Songezo Zibi (Rise Mzansi), Ganief Hendricks (Al Jama-Ah), Mzwanele Nyhontso (PAC) and Brett Herron (Good). They all came to a consensus that the GNU is unified and robust.

The leaders agreed that regular meetings among party heads would provide strategic political guidance to the GNU’s activities. They acknowledged challenges that arose during the 2025 budget process and committed to improving consultation processes to develop fiscal priorities more effectively.

All parties reiterated their unwavering dedication to the GNU, viewing it as a means to advance the interests of all South Africans, reflecting the voters’ will. Over the past 16 months, the GNU has offered stability and leadership to the nation, focusing on addressing critical issues like unemployment, poverty, crime, corruption, and service delivery.

The GNU has successfully united parties from various political backgrounds to collaboratively drive inclusive growth, job creation, poverty alleviation, and the establishment of a capable developmental state. Guided by the priorities outlined in the Statement of Intent, the GNU has adopted the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) as a transformative vision for the current administration’s five-year term.

Since its inception, the Government of National Unity has worked on establishing a platform for inclusive growth through sweeping reforms in energy, logistics, telecommunications, water, and visas. Additionally, it has launched a significant infrastructure development and maintenance initiative aimed at diversifying exports in response to tariff hikes.