By: Natasha Archary

Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, John Steenhuisen has confirmed that his party has joined forces with the African National Congress (ANC) and Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) to govern the country as well as KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and Gauteng.
In a speech following the outcome of the election negotiations, Steenhuisen confirmed the DA reachd an agreement on the statement of intent for the formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU).
This means that the 3 parties will share power in both the National Assembly, as well as in two of the major provinces, Gauteng and KZN.
Despite losing majority of the vote in KZN to the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, the ANC chartered a new direction to remain in power.
After failing to obtain a majority vote in the 2024 National and Provincial elections for the first time in 30-years, the ANC will now share decision making with both the DA and IFP in the GNU.
Steenhuisen said at the heart of the GNU agreement are fundamentals of the party’s manifesto which includes:
- Rapid economic growth and job creation;
- Tackling poverty and the high cost of living;
- Building a merit-based, non-partisan and professional public service that puts the people first;
- Strengthening law enforcement agencies to address crime, corruption and gender-based violence; and
- Investing in people through better education, skills development and quality healthcare.
- In order to give effect to this vision, the Democratic Alliance will now step up to contribute our unique track record of good, clean and accountable governance to the national project.
Per the agreement of the GNU, the DA will assume various leadership roles in the national Cabinet, the National Assembly, the National Council of Provinces, and on parliamentary portfolio committees, broadly in proportion to our share of seats within the GNU.
The inauguration of the President-elect will take place in Pretoria on Wednesday of next week, according to a statement made by Secretary to Parliament Xolile George.
Also read: Panyaza Lesufi elected unopposed to retain his position as Gauteng Premier



