By Phenyo Selinda
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi will unveil the Members of the Executive Council (MECs) for the 7th administration tonight, 3 July 2024, at 8 pm. This announcement follows a period of intense negotiations and delays, primarily due to the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) stance on coalition terms. The DA has confirmed it will not be part of the Executive of the Gauteng Government of Provincial Unity, citing the offer as unfair and unreasonable. As the political landscape in Gauteng remains dynamic, this decision marks a crucial turning point.
Coalition Talks and Negotiations
Background of the Coalition Negotiations
The post-election scenario in Gauteng has been marked by intricate coalition talks aimed at forming a stable government. The African National Congress (ANC), being the largest party in the provincial legislature, initiated discussions with other parties, including the DA, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and the MK Party, to establish a Government of Provincial Unity (GPU).
Delays and Disputes
Delays in the announcement of the MECs were primarily due to the DA’s demands for cabinet positions. The DA sought four positions in the cabinet, whereas the ANC offered three posts, with one post each allocated to smaller parties. This discrepancy led to a stalemate in the negotiations.
Media Briefing and Statements
During a media briefing at Luthuli House, Premier Lesufi expressed the government’s intent to collaborate with all parties, despite the challenges faced in reaching an agreement. ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula also highlighted the DA’s non-compliance with an initial agreement, which proposed the DA receive a deputy speaker position, three MECs, and six portfolio committee chairs.
Formation of the Government
Protracted Negotiations
The formation of the Gauteng Government of Provincial Unity has been a protracted process. While other provinces like the Northern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal successfully formed their governments, Gauteng remained without an executive due to ongoing disputes.
ANC’s Efforts
The ANC has been at the forefront of negotiating a viable government structure. Despite the DA’s withdrawal, the ANC remains committed to forming an inclusive government. Lesufi’s announcement tonight will reveal the final composition of the provincial cabinet, which aims to represent the diverse interests of Gauteng’s population.
DA’s Position and Reaction
DA’s Demands and Withdrawal
The DA’s demands for proportional representation in the cabinet were deemed excessive by the ANC. Despite extensive negotiations, the DA’s insistence on a 5:4:1 proportionality ratio led to a deadlock. DA Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga clarified that while the party did not walk out of the negotiations, they found the ANC’s offer unacceptable.
Mbalula’s Criticism
Fikile Mbalula criticized the DA for negotiating in bad faith, accusing them of attempting to change the agreed terms. He emphasized that the ANC would not concede to the DA’s latest proposals and urged for a return to the negotiation table.
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