Gayton Mckenzie’s Patriotic Alliance (PA) is throwing its weight behind the ANC’s proposal of a government of national unity.
This comes after the outcome of the 2024 general elections held on May 29, where no political party obtained an outright majority.
PA secretary-general Chinelle Stevens said the party is already engaged in discussions with other political parties regarding the proposal of the ANC.
At its special national executive committee meeting in Boksburg last week, the ANC said it would hold discussions with other parties regarding the formation of a government on national unity.
“Despite any rumours to the contrary, the Patriotic Alliance remains open to participating in a government of national unity,” said Stevens.
“We are in active discussions with other parties to this effect and are firmly committed to being constructive partners in achieving a positive outcome.
“Now that the election is behind us, the message from the electorate is clear: it is time to overcome our political differences and focus on the development of our country.
“The people of South Africa have spoken, and their call for unity and progress must be heeded.”
Platform to serve South Africans
She said the PA wants to use the government of national unity as a platform to serve all South Africans and to bring about economic empowerment for all citizens.
“Our desire is to navigate through this constitutional process as swiftly and efficiently as possible. The quicker we conclude this process, the sooner we can dedicate ourselves to the pressing task of governing our nation.
“We are unwavering in our commitment to South Africa. We are devoted to economic empowerment and wellbeing for all our citizens.
“Our allegiance is to the entire population, regardless of political affiliation, race, or creed. We believe that every South African deserves a government that works for their benefit.
“As we look forward to the next five years, the Patriotic Alliance is ready to play a constructive and pivotal role in the government of national unity.
“We are prepared to bring our best ideas and most dedicated efforts to the table. Together, we can build a future that reflects the hopes and aspirations of all South Africans,” she said.
Structures in five provinces disbanded
Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to members on Monday, Stevens said the PA has taken a decision to disband, with immediate effect, its provincial structures in Free State, North West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal.
She explained: “Following the outcomes of the 2024 national and provincial elections, the national executive committee of the party sat down to evaluate the performance of the party across all provinces, and various decisions have been taken.
“As per the president’s live broadcast last night [Sunday], the following provinces with all provincial, regional, and ward structures are disbanded with immediate effect: Free State, North West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.”
She said a date would be communicated where members of the national executive committee would visit the disbanded provinces to “assess and restructure”.
Seven seats in the National Assembly
All councillors and political appointees would also be evaluated and possibly restricted after a discussion with the leadership.
Seven members of PA will represent the party in the National Assembly thanks to its 2.06% election performance.
The National Assembly’s first sitting will take place on Friday at 10am at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, where the speaker and deputy speaker will be elected.
The president will also be elected during the first sitting of the assembly.
