Pretoria: South Africa is marking the first anniversary of the Government of National Unity (GNU) following the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, as announced by Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni. The elections resulted in no single political party securing an outright majority, leading to the formation of the GNU within a mere 14 days.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Minister highlighted the remarkable nature of this achievement, contrasting it with the longer periods often required by some first-world countries under similar circumstances. During a media briefing after the Cabinet meeting, Ntshavheni expressed that this milestone underscores a renewed commitment to stability, collaboration, and inclusive governance in South Africa.
Ntshavheni pointed out that the GNU, comprising 10 political parties, prioritizes the needs of the country and its citizens by fostering unity and shared purpose through constructive dialogue and compromise. She emphasized the historic nature of this partnership, which has enabled the parties to collaboratively tackle pressing national issues despite differing ideological perspectives.
In a statement last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa remarked on the unprecedented nature of the GNU in the history of South African democracy. He noted that the formation of the new government was guided by the national interest, the election results, and the diverse capabilities of each participating party.
The President further stated that all parties within the GNU had pledged to uphold the Constitution, ensure transparent and accountable governance, favor evidence-based policy-making, and emphasize the professionalization of the public service, integrity, and good governance.