ANC MPs Push for DA’s Exit from Government of National Unity as Tensions Boil Over

Tensions within South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) are reaching a breaking point as African National Congress (ANC) Members of Parliament (MPs) demand the expulsion of the Democratic Alliance (DA) from the coalition. Over 100 MPs reportedly confronted ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula during a heated meeting held on 2 May 2025 in Johannesburg.

The friction stems largely from the DA’s repeated opposition to key government policies — including its legal challenge to the VAT hike, opposition to the National Health Insurance, and contestation of the Basic Education Amendment Laws Act.

A Coalition Under Strain

What was once hailed as a cooperative step toward inclusive governance is now showing serious cracks. The ANC MPs’ frustration came to a head after the Western Cape High Court ordered the scrapping of Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s budget tabled in March — a decision sparked by a DA-initiated case.

The ANC emergency meeting, originally convened to discuss Godongwana’s revised budget speech scheduled for 21 May, quickly descended into a tense showdown. Mbalula faced a barrage of criticism from MPs who accused the DA of undermining the GNU. According to sources cited in the Sunday Times, some MPs insisted that the DA had “shown no intention to work collaboratively” and demanded its immediate removal.

Internal Party Tensions Erupt

Mbalula, who was meant to present a report on the budget process, reportedly arrived an hour late — triggering further discontent. Party Chairperson Gwede Mantashe allegedly walked out mid-address, and Deputy President Paul Mashatile also reprimanded Mbalula over the delay.

The ANC Youth League has joined the chorus, calling for all DA ministers to be removed from the Cabinet following their vote against the VAT increase.

Despite these clashes, the ANC and DA had recently met in Sandton to address ongoing issues and reported “constructive discussions.” But Mbalula’s public outburst — where he chanted “DA must fall” — may have further strained the already fragile relationship.

Public Reaction: ‘The Gravy Train Is Drying Up’

Many South Africans took to social media to express skepticism over the ANC’s motives. Reactions on TimesLIVE’s Facebook post ranged from criticism of ANC desperation to calls for younger, more accountable leadership.

“That sounds like the last kicks of a dying horse,” wrote one user.
“The tender taps have been half closed. Days are dark, and sweet tenders are few,” added another.

Where Does the GNU Stand Now?

Despite the pressure, the ANC has not made a final decision on the DA’s future in the GNU. Mbalula has stated that the party remains open to engaging with coalition partners, including the DA and the Freedom Front Plus, who also opposed the VAT increase.

As tensions continue to rise and internal factionalism deepens, the fate of South Africa’s coalition government hangs in the balance. Whether the ANC can manage its internal dissent while keeping the GNU intact remains to be seen — but what’s clear is that the unity it once promised is under serious threat.

{Source: MSN}

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