What Emerged from Ramaphosa’s ‘Secret’ GNU Retreat
By Thobeka Makume
The leaders of the 10 political parties in the Government of National Unity (GNU) concluded a two-day retreat at the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng on Monday, pledging to step up efforts to tackle unemployment, poverty, crime and corruption. The meeting was attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, and leaders of the ANC, DA, IFP, Patriotic Alliance, FF Plus, UDM, Rise Mzansi, Al Jama-Ah, PAC and GOOD. According to a joint statement, the leaders agreed that the GNU remains united and committed to implementing the priorities outlined in the Statement of Intent signed 16 months ago. However, they acknowledged operational challenges during the 2025 budget process and said lessons had been learned to improve consultation on fiscal planning.
The retreat, described as highly successful, provided a platform for reflection on progress and strategic alignment, amid South Africa’s ongoing economic and social hurdles. This comes as the GNU seeks to prove its effectiveness in delivering on promises made after the 2024 elections, where no party secured a majority.
High-Level Attendees and Focus Areas
The gathering brought together key figures from across the political spectrum, including John Steenhuisen (DA), Velenkosini Hlabisa (IFP), Gayton McKenzie (PA), Corné Mulder (FF Plus), Bantu Holomisa (UDM), Songezo Zibi (Rise Mzansi), Ganief Hendricks (Al Jama-ah), Mzwanele Nyhontso (PAC), and Brett Herron (Good). Led by Ramaphosa and Mashatile, the discussions centred on implementing the GNU’s basic minimum programme to drive inclusive growth, reduce poverty, and build a capable state.
The joint statement noted: “The GNU has established a platform for inclusive growth through reforms in energy, logistics, telecommunications, water and visas.” Leaders highlighted actions like infrastructure expansion, youth employment programmes, social support for poor households, and macroeconomic stability measures, including debt reduction.
Acknowledging Challenges and Lessons from Budget Process
A candid admission came regarding “difficulties in the functioning of the GNU, most notably around the 2025 budget process.” The parties committed to better consultation in future fiscal planning, ensuring all voices are heard. This follows tensions earlier in 2025 when the DA opposed certain budget elements, but it was ultimately passed.
Despite these hurdles, the GNU reaffirmed its unity: “The GNU is united and strong.” The leaders agreed to meet regularly for strategic direction, emphasising that the coalition reflects voters’ will and serves all South Africans.
Reaffirming Priorities for National Transformation
The statement outlined the GNU’s core focus: unemployment, poverty, cost of living, crime, corruption, and service delivery. The Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) was endorsed as the administration’s central programme, with calls for greater urgency in implementation.
Key priorities include:
- Professionalisation and depoliticisation of public services.
- A food security plan to combat hunger.
- Comprehensive skills development and work opportunities for youth.
- Mobilising against gangsterism and organised crime.
- Appointing ethical leaders in the criminal justice system.
- Effective interventions in failing municipalities.
- Strengthening border management and economic opportunities for South Africans.
- Improved oversight of state-owned enterprises, with minimum standards for board appointments.
The leaders also discussed international relations and preparations for South Africa’s G20 presidency in 2025, under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.” “Therefore, through solidarity, as South Africa, we aim to achieve a future that is people-centred, development-oriented and inclusive,” the statement read.
Progress on the National Dialogue was noted, with the Eminent Persons Group establishing a Steering Committee for local and sectoral dialogues.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana briefed the meeting on the economy’s state and fiscal outlook, informing discussions on sustainable growth.
Symbolic Gestures and Broader Commitments
The retreat included a nod to national pride, with congratulations to the Proteas women’s cricket team for reaching the ICC Women’s World Cup finals. “This achievement provides inspiration to sports women across all sporting codes and follows the achievements of other national teams,” the statement said.
The Leaders Forum ratified terms for the GNU Clearing House Mechanism, a working group to resolve policy divergences. “The Clearing House Mechanism is a working group of the GNU, and that its primary tasks are to address policy and related areas of possible divergence within the GNU.”
The statement concluded that the GNU “is now more cohesive, determined and focused than ever before,” committed to “urgency and action” for South Africans’ needs.
Implications for South Africa’s Political Landscape
This retreat, the first major gathering since the GNU’s formation, signals an effort to iron out differences in a coalition of diverse ideologies. With 10 parties representing varied interests, unity is key to tackling entrenched issues like 32% unemployment and rising poverty.
Critics, however, question if the retreat’s outcomes will translate to real change, given past coalition frictions. As South Africa approaches its G20 presidency, the GNU’s stability will be under global spotlight.
For now, the leaders’ pledge offers hope for collaborative governance, with regular meetings planned to keep the momentum. The full joint statement is available on the Presidency’s website.
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