President Cyril Ramaphosa.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on parties within the government of national unity (GNU) not to allow differences over the allocation of cabinet posts to be a stumbling block in the creation of an “inclusive government”.

Gnu - Figure 1
Photo Maritzburg Sun

This as GNU negotiations have deadlocked over the number of cabinet seats which parties are entitled to.

In his newsletter published on Monday, Ramaphosa said differences over the allocation of cabinet positions has the potential to erode public confidence in the GNU.

“The formation of the second Government of National Unity (GNU) is a momentous development in South Africa’s democracy.

“Every effort must be made to ensure that the GNU remains true to its founding spirit of collaboration in good faith to drive a programme that improves the lives of all South Africa’s people.

“South Africans made clear with their votes in last month’s elections that they want their elected representatives to put aside narrow interests and work together to build the country. To do so, the GNU cannot be preoccupied with jockeying for positions, tussles over appointments or squabbles within and between parties,” he said.

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According to sources, the power-sharing dispute has resulted in Ramaphosa holding back on the announcement of the GNU cabinet.

Ramaphosa, who was re-elected during the National Assembly’s first sitting over a week ago, said citizens were more interested in a GNU which best served their needs, and not on how the cabinet positions were allocated.

“It will be critical that the GNU stays the course on the structural reform that is underway to improve the business operating environment and establish South Africa as an investment destination of choice. These reforms are necessary to resolve longstanding challenges in key industries and create more jobs and opportunities. We will need to build on the progress that has already been made, while accelerating the pace of reform.

“The fact that there is broad consensus among the parties on the priorities of the incoming administration gives us encouragement that the GNU will indeed take the country forward. Emanating from the priorities outlined in the Statement of Intent, the parties will further refine the GNU’s programme, including through the proposed National Dialogue process.

“We remain committed to consensus-building and to the representation of a broad range of interests and viewpoints within government. At the same time, we are all keenly aware that South Africans expect action, implementation and results,” he said.