After threatening President Cyril Ramaphosa with an ultimatum, the Democratic Alliance bark did not match its bite, as they have resolved to remain in the Government of National Unity.
Instead, the party has taken the decision to withdraw from the National Dialogue with immediate effect, in reaction to their MP Andrew Whitfield’s axing as deputy minister.
Speaking to the media at their much-anticipated press conference on Saturday in Cape Town, party leader John Steenhuisen called the dialogue an “an electioneering ploy”.
“They know that any National Dialogue is utterly meaningless when it is presided over by criminals and the corrupt and those who provide safe refuge for them,” he said.
The party then went on to explain how toothless the National Dialogue will be, as it lacks any constitutional powers.
“We will also actively mobilise against it to stop this obscene waste of R740 million – starting with a call on civil society to join us in demanding that the National Dialogue not proceed until President Ramaphosa fires ANC corruption accused and other delinquents from the executive,” he said.
Far-reaching consequences
As a means to further protest Whitfield’s removal, the DA intends on voting against upcoming budget votes for the departments headed by human settlements minister Thembi Simelane, higher education minister Nobuhle Nkabane, and others accused of corruption.
“If the ANC wants our support for those departmental budgets, they must replace the incumbent ministers with alternatives that meet the very standard the President has set for himself through Whitfield’s axing” the DA leader said.
On Thursday the DA made a 48-hour ultimatum to Ramaphosa, demanding the removal of ministers accused of corruption.
DA Federal Council Chair Helen Zille called an emergency meeting with the party’s top brass to discuss how they would be dealing with Whitfield’s dismissal.
Another meeting was held before the press briefing where the party took the decision not to advance a motion of no confidence against Ramaphosa.
“We understand the concerns that many South Africans have about what will follow once Ramaphosa is removed from office.
“However, I want to be honest that, in the DA’s view, the President is failing to uphold his word to act against corruption and fast becoming indistinguishable from the RET faction in his party,” Steenhuisen said.
The DA is now expected to submit the name of a candidate who will replace Whitfield as the Deputy Minister of Trade Industry and Competition.
Visit SW YouTube Channel for our video content
