Democratic Alliance in Gauteng has pulled out of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) over position disputes with the African National Congress (ANC).
The two parties have failed to reach an agreement on the allocation of portfolios in the provincial executive council.
Solly Msimanga, Gauteng DA leader, said they had agreed to a power-sharing deal. It aimed to afford them trust in this political marriage. However, the party alleges that the ANC have always wanted to take the lead.
“We will not be functionaries who rubber-stamp decisions made by an executive. That evidently, is intent on keeping us on the edge of the fray,” said Msimanga.
DA wants power-sharing deal
“Beyond the problematic nature of an attitude that seemingly does not understand what their significant loss of the vote share in Gauteng entails, an air of refusal to be partners, which ultimately is the goal, dominated conversations,” he added.
The DA leader reiterates the two parties did not interpret the Statement of Intent the same way. Particularly Clause 16 and Clause 19.
Lack of fairness, proportionality, and principles was the reason that the DA pulled out of the deal. They believe that the ANC did not share the same view.
The DA will now form what they refer to as a shadow-cabinet. This means they will count every step and point out every wrong move that the Gauteng executive would do. They will do this as they sit on the opposition benches.
“Our principles, and the principles set out in the Statement of Intent, are non-negotiable. And we will not allow either to be trampled on,” said Msimanga.
Helen Zille reiterates stance on Statement of Intent
On Monday, Helen Zille, federal council chairperson for the DA, had revealed that the ANC wanted to grant the DA only three positions. This while they spared seven for themselves, plus the Premier.
According to the DA, this contradicted Clause 19. They interpret it to mean that power should be shared in relation to the votes received.
ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula addressed the media from Luthuli House on Wednesday. He said Premier Panyaza Lesufi will announce his cabinet with or without the DA.
“We are unable to accede to the DA’s latest proposals, as we have indicated throughout negotiations. The DA is not the only party we are negotiating with the setting up of the Government of Provincial Unity.
“The ANC reiterates its firm held conviction. The task of setting up government in the economic heartland of our country is both urgent and overdue. It would be [irresponsible] to continue with this impasse,” said Mbalula.
