An unprecedented coalition government has been formed in South Africa, following eleventh-hour negotiations between traditional rivals. President Cyril Ramaphosa leads the multiparty coalition, which includes the ANC, the Democratic Alliance (DA), and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).
The ANC’s worst electoral decline in 30 years prompted the formation of the coalition, as the party did not secure a majority in the May 29 election. The DA and IFP, with 21% and 6% of the seats in Parliament respectively, will be the ANC’s main partners in government.
The agreement outlines ten fundamental principles, including a commitment to rapid economic growth. However, the coalition faces challenges as parties with differing ideologies must find common ground on key issues.
The ‘hard part’ starts now
Former DA leader Tony Leon emphasized the importance of trust in making the coalition government function effectively. While initial agreements have been reached, the allocation of positions within the government is yet to be decided.
Despite uncertainties, some analysts view the coalition as a positive development that may push ideological parties towards the center, away from extreme positions.