The Economic Freedom Fighters-led Progressive Caucus is slowly losing membership as United Democratic Movement (UDM) exits the group.
The Progressive Caucus was a collective effort to question the Government of National Unity (GNU). And if seen fit, join as a collective.
It was formed by the EFF, Al Jama-Ah and the African Transformation Movement (ATM). Also the United Africans Transformation (UAT), Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC), and the UDM.
The two rearmost have since parted ways.
Issues with the GNU not clarified
In a letter to ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula, Bantu Holomisa, confirms the meeting held between the two parties on Monday. The meeting was on the discussion of the Statement of Intent of the 2024 Government of National Unity.
This after the Progressive Caucus on Friday raised some issues. It informed the public that some of the parties have not been invited to the discussion on the GNU’s Statement of Intent.
The Progressive Caucus, still with UDM, insisted that no political party would independently meet with the ANC. This to discuss their venture into the GNU, highlighting that they should be invited as a collective.
In the letter, UDM leader Bantu Holomisa said they understood some of the matters raised during the discussion would be discussed by the GNU participants at a later stage.
“The agreement will subsequently be signed, and the public will be informed later on how the GNU will operate.
UDM happy with GNU policy
“The UDM held the pre-election view that there was an emerging consensus that there would be no outright winner in the 2024 National and Provincial elections. This should not be seen as a negative but rather as a positive outcome of a flourishing democracy,” said Holomisa in the letter.
Holomisa also brought to the table that a Technical Committee should be formed following the GNU. This in an effort to thoroughly examine what all involved political parties stood for. Then formulate a policy that would work for all.
“This committee should also consider the manifestos of those parties outside the GNU who are in Parliament. They have been given a mandate by voters to effect change in South Africa. The UDM herewith accepts the invitation to join the Government of National Unity,” said Holomisa.
