Ramaphosa slams DA for 'undermining' GNU with ‘excessive demands’
President Cyril Ramaphosa has seemingly drawn a line in the sand amid a flurry of letters between the ANC and DA over the composition of the national unity government.
It is understood that Ramaphosa and DA leader John Steenhuisen have had several meetings since the parties agreed to form a government of national unity.
However, the major sticking point remains the number of ministries demanded by the DA.
In a strongly-worded letter, Ramaphosa calls out Steenhuisen for what he calls negotiating through correspondence.
Ramaphosa says the parties that joined the government of national unity were close to an agreement, but progress was stalled when the DA moved the goalposts by making additional demands.
He states that discussions with ten other parties took place in line with the Constitution and its values, but this has not been the case with the DA.
"To date, our discussions with the DA, PA, IFP, Good, PAC, UDM, Al Jama'ah, Freedom Front Plus, and Rise Mzansi have been geared towards building and consolidating the Govemment of National Unity, in the national interest.
"The discussions with all 10 parties to the Statement of Intent have served to entrench an appreciation for the Constitution, and its values, as well as an understanding of the rules and protocols that faclitate effective and lawful government.
"Unfortunately, this has not been the case with the DA. In its recent proposals, I believe the DA has jeopardized the foundation of setting up a Government of National Unity by moving the goalposts in your letter of 24 June 2024 to me, I am truly taken aback by how you now want two more portfolios to bring the DA's portfolios to 8," wrote Ramaphosa.
Ramaphosa says he regards Steenhuisen's approach in moving the goalposts as an attempt to set up a parallel government.
"I also prefer not to deal further with the legally incompetent proposals to unilaterally redetermine contractual arrangements of Directors General and other contracts.
"I did inform you that I felt we should not dwell on the misguided propositions contained in that letter as paying attention to the contents of that letter would divert us from the task at hand of constituting a Government of National Unity," he added.
Ramaphosa also underlined the urgency of setting up a government, adding that he intends to conclude all negotiations and consultations this week without any further delays.
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