Helen Zille Lays Out Conditions for DA Participation in Ne2 South African Cabinet
Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa
In a letter to ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, Democratic Alliance Chairperson Helen Zille has outlined the conditions under which the DA would be willing to join a multiparty government. The letter, dated June 23, 2024, comes in response to the ANC’s invitation for the DA to participate in a new coalition government following the recent election.
Zille reiterates the DA’s commitment to being part of a government that “delivers demonstrable, positive change for the people of South Africa.” However, she states that the DA’s decision will “depend on our ability to effect such change” and that they have a “mandate from 3.5 million voters to do so.”
The letter proposes a model for distributing cabinet positions that respects both the electoral results and the need for inclusivity. It suggests an “inclusivity pot” where the two largest parties, the ANC and DA, would contribute posts proportionally. Zille argues this gives “fair, reasonable and accurate effect” to the Statement of Intent signed by the parties.
Among the DA’s key demands are:
– The DA holding the position of Deputy President, or alternatively a Minister in the Presidency and a Deputy Minister of Finance
– Representation across all cabinet clusters, with the DA occupying specific ministries
– The ability to select Directors General in departments led by DA ministers
– A review of tenders issued since the election was called
– Establishment of a “technical clearing house” to resolve policy differences between coalition partners
Zille notes that the DA’s participation in provincial governments in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal is contingent on its inclusion in the national government. She reiterates the party’s commitment to delivering on crucial issues like job creation, poverty alleviation, security, education, and healthcare.
The letter underscores the complexities of forming a multiparty government in South Africa’s post-election landscape, as parties seek to balance the will of the electorate with the need for collaborative governance.
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