‘Ramaphosa will be president’: Steenhuisen confirms ANC deal

Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen has confirmed that his party has signed a document of intent to form a multi-party coalition with the African National Congress (ANC) and other political parties.

The agreement, which has also been described as a Government of National Unity (GNU), was signed on Friday morning as Members of Parliament (MPs) were sworn in at the first sitting of Parliament.

In an address, Steenhuisen told his supporters that the DA would co-govern South Africa.

“After two weeks of negotiations that only concluded after today’s sitting of Parliament started, the DA has reached an agreement on the statement of intent for the formation of a Government of National Unity.”

“Today the DA becomes a party of national government. From today the DA will co-govern SA in the spirit of unity and collaboration.”

He said service delivery seen in DA-run municipalities would be seen on a national level.

He said the DA would back Ramaphosa for the position of president, as negotiations continue in phases.

“The presidential candidate will come from the largest party in the grouping, President Cyril Ramaphosa. He will then exercise his prerogative to appoint his new cabinet from among the members of the GNU and in consultation with leaders.”

The next phase will see parties meet to discuss policy and framework for governing together.”

Thoko Didiza is likely to be elected Speaker of the National Assembly, while the Deputy Speaker position will come from the DA.

The ANC’s Mdumiseni Ntuli is touted as the incoming chief whip.

IFP support for ANC and DA

The parties’ nominees are also expected to have the support of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and other small opposition parties who are a part of the ANC’s push for a Government of National Unity (GNU).

The ANC and DA are understood to have worked until the early hours of Friday morning to iron out the speaking order and how they will respond to any disruptions in the house. 

Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Front (EFF) and others who are not part of the GNU were expected to contest the election of speaker, deputy speaker and president. 

‘Sufficient consensus’

According to News24, Ramaphosa and DA federal leader John Steenhuisen had telephonic discussions on Friday morning about how decision-making in Cabinet will work, and it was agreed that the concept of “sufficient consensus” will be implemented.

This means that should there be an agreement between parties comprising at least 60% of seats in the National Assembly, a decision can be made.