Is South Africa’s Government on the Brink of Collapse? Inside the Crisis Unfolding!

Tumultuous Times: South Africa’s Coalition Government Faces Challenges

In mid-June 2024, South Africa embarked on an unprecedented political experiment by forming the “Government of National Unity” (GNU), following a significant electoral setback for the African National Congress (ANC). The ANC, which had governed solo since the nation’s apartheid era ended in 1994, found itself compelled to form alliances, notably with the Democratic Alliance (DA)—a party often viewed as a relic of white dominance despite its diverse voter base.

This coalition, a year into its existence, has been marked more by its survival than by any significant political successes. The internal tensions and ideological clashes were apparent from the outset, casting doubts about its long-term viability.

Core Issues Stirring Discontent

One of the main sources of discord within the coalition centers around land reform. The majority of South African farmland remains under white ownership. Initial attempts to redistribute land through a “Willing Buyer, Willing Seller” policy proved ineffective, leading to more radical calls for uncompensated expropriations. This culminated in a law passed by the ANC-dominated parliament, allowing for such expropriations without compensation—a law that President Cyril Ramaphosa hesitated to sign due to reservations. In January 2025, to appease the more radical elements within his party, Ramaphosa ratified the law, despite strong opposition from the DA.

Another battleground is the proposed nationalization of the healthcare system, a plan stalled due to financial constraints, with the DA opposing it on fiscal grounds. The education sector is also a point of contention, with disagreements over the extent of state control over school curriculums.

Ministerial Dismissal Sparks Further Conflict

The coalition faced a new crisis with the dismissal of the Deputy Trade Minister, a member of the DA, by President Ramaphosa. The official reason given was an unauthorized trip to the USA, but the DA countered by demanding the dismissal of several ANC ministers accused of corruption. When their 48-hour ultimatum went unheeded, it exacerbated tensions significantly.

DA leader John Steenhuisen argued that the dismissed Deputy Minister was merely trying to expose malpractices within his department, accusing the ANC of attempting to monopolize top governmental posts to perpetuate corruption.

DA Withdraws from National Dialogue

The failure of the President to respond to the DA’s ultimatum led to their withdrawal from the “National Dialogue,” a forum intended to address the nation’s socio-economic challenges, which is set to commence on August 15. The DA, however, has expressed its intention to remain in the government despite exiting the dialogue, a move that Ramaphosa has labeled as hypocritical.

ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula escalated the rhetoric by suggesting that the DA should completely withdraw from the GNU.

The Fragile State of the Government of National Unity

As the GNU teeters on the brink, the political landscape in South Africa remains highly volatile. Opposition parties on the left, like the uMkhonto-weSizwe Party (MKP) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), are gaining traction with their support for policies like land reform and nationalization of healthcare. Should current trends continue, the ANC might find itself playing a secondary role in a future coalition with the DA—a scenario the former liberation movement is keen to avoid.

Amidst this political turmoil, the stakes are high not only for South Africa but for the entire southern African region. Any significant destabilization could have a domino effect on neighboring economies. Even for a stable government, the challenges of a faltering economy, high unemployment, and rampant corruption are daunting. The chemistry between coalition partners is crucial; without harmony, the government’s effectiveness is severely compromised.

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Lowell Hagan

Lowell Hagan closely follows international affairs. From geopolitical conflicts to economic cooperation, he provides context to help readers better understand global dynamics. His clear, structured style gives meaning to global news.