NATIONAL NEWS - The leaders of the ten political parties leading the Government of National Unity (GNU) have reaffirmed their commitment to the seventh administration and serving the people of South Africa.

The leaders held a two-day retreat at the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng over the weekend.

According to a joint statement of the parties, the retreat provided a platform for reflection on progress in implementation of the GNU statement of intent priorities, discussion on “contemporary national and international issues” and to address “critical issues facing the country”.

“The leaders were unanimous that the GNU is united and strong. The meeting agreed that this forum of party leaders would meet regularly to provide strategic political direction to the work of the GNU.

“The leaders recognised difficulties at times in the functioning of the GNU, most notably around the 2025 budget process. However, it has drawn important lessons from these experiences and will ensure more effective consultation in developing fiscal priorities and frameworks.

“All parties reaffirmed their full commitment to the GNU as a reflection of the will of voters as an instrument to advance the interests of all South Africans,” the statement read.

The GNU was formed following the 2024 General Elections and, 16 months on, has “provided stability and leadership to the country”.

“It remains focused on resolving the concerns of the South African people: unemployment, poverty, the cost of living, crime, corruption and delivery of services.

“The GNU has successfully brought together parties from different political traditions and perspectives to undertake a common programme to drive inclusive growth and job creation, tackle poverty and the cost of living, and build a capable developmental state.

“Guided by the basic minimum programme of priorities contained in the Statement of Intent, the GNU has adopted the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) as a transformative vision and programme for the five years of this administration,” the statement continued.

Achievements since the formation of the GNU include:

• Establishing a platform for inclusive growth through far-reaching reforms in energy logistics, telecommunications, water and visas;
• Embarked on a massive infrastructure build and maintenance drive;
• As part of the response to tariff increases, worked to diversify exports and expand into new and existing markets;
• Prioritised the expansion of early childhood development and strengthening the foundational years of learning;
• Provided work and livelihood opportunities to young people on an unprecedented scale through public employment programmes; and
• Sustained spending to support poor households even amid severe financial constraints.

The leaders have agreed that while much has been done during the last 16 months, “work underway needs to be accelerated and its impact needs to be felt by all South Africans”.

Urgent attention will be directed to:

• Ensuring greater urgency and action in the implementation of government programmes, the streamlining of processes and structures and the further professionalisation and depoliticisation of the public service;
• Developing a food security plan to address the dire situation of hunger affecting many households and communities across the country;
• A comprehensive and far-reaching strategy for skills development and the creation of work experience and livelihood opportunities for young people;
• Mobilising law enforcement and security services and key stakeholders to intensify the fight against the rise in gangsterism and organised crime;
• The appointment of capable, ethical leadership in the criminal justice system;
• Equipping national and provincial government to intervene more effectively where municipalities fail to fulfil their mandates;
• Undertaking a comprehensive response to illegal immigration, including strengthening border management and expanding economic opportunities for South Africans; and
• Improving oversight and coordination of state-owned enterprises and setting minimum standards for board appointments.

“The leaders were clear that the GNU is now more cohesive, determined and focused than ever before.

“The GNU is focused on urgency and action and remains true to its fundamental purpose: to serve the interests and meet the needs of all South Africans,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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