Author: Qaanitah Hunter

Breaking News: ANC Faces Uncertainty in South Africa’s Coalition Government After losing its majority in the recent elections, the African National Congress (ANC) is navigating a rocky path towards forming a coalition government in South Africa. The deadlock over cabinet positions between the ANC and the Democratic Alliance (DA) has put the stability of the new government at risk. Tensions escalated this week as leaks of letters between party leaders hinted at possible rifts within the coalition. However, negotiations seemed to be nearing a resolution as President Cyril Ramaphosa and DA leader John Steenhuisen were set to finalize their agreements.…

Read More

President Cyril Ramaphosa had a meeting with DA leader John Steenhuisen on Monday. (Supplied/GCIS) At the first hint of power, the DA believes in giving autonomy to ministers for appointing civil servants. This stance reveals a shift in the party’s approach to the civil service, writes Qaanitah Hunter. While it may seem extreme for the DA to demand 20 out of 30 Cabinet positions in a government of national unity with the ANC, politics often involves bold moves. Understanding the dynamics of governance is crucial for shaping a successful future. With 25 years of keeping South Africa informed, News24 continues…

Read More

The Political Landscape of South Africa: A New Coalition Government and its Impact on Palestine Policy In a bold move earlier this year, South Africa, led by the ANC, took Israel to the ICJ for alleged genocide in Gaza, garnering global support. However, domestically, the coalition government formed with the DA, PA, and IFP has raised questions about potential shifts in South Africa’s stance on Israel and Palestine. Despite assurances from the ANC that its support for Palestine remains steadfast, analysts speculate on the compromises the coalition might demand. The DA, historically pro-Israel, has adjusted its position to a call…

Read More

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,…

Read More

One can imagine Cyril Ramaphosa’s dread as he tries to devise iterations of his Mandela-like GNU. But as statesman-like as Ramaphosa wants to appear, Qaanitah Hunter argues he does not have what it takes to manage what is to come. Let’s assume the ANC’s grand plan for a government of national unity (GNU) works out, and President Cyril Ramaphosa is elected for a second term by midday on Friday. Does he actually have what it takes to manage an executive with competing interests and messy trade-offs? I highly doubt it. South Africans need to be in the know if we…

Read More

South Africa’s ANC Seeks Unity Amid Election Fallout After a disappointing election result, the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa is looking to form a “Government of National Unity” to navigate the country’s political landscape. President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the need for extraordinary leadership in a moment of profound importance for South Africa after losing their parliamentary majority. Unlike forming direct coalitions with rival parties, the ANC aims for a broad multiparty alliance to govern effectively. Lessons from the past show that this approach can bring together diverse factions for the greater good. However, challenges lie ahead in negotiating…

Read More

South Africa’s ANC Enters Talks for Coalition Government After Election Setback Following a significant decline in support in the recent election, South Africa’s ruling African National Congress (ANC) is engaging in discussions with political opponents to form a coalition government. The ANC’s share of the vote dropped to just over 40%, prompting the need for collaboration with other parties to secure a majority. While the ANC explores the possibility of a coalition, potential alliances with parties like the Democratic Alliance (DA) are being considered. Despite differences in ideologies, forming a stable government is a priority to ensure effective governance and…

Read More

Jacob Zuma’s Breakaway Party Surges in South Africa’s Elections In a surprising turn of events, former President Jacob Zuma’s new breakaway uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MK) is making significant gains in South Africa’s general elections. With the ANC losing ground, the MK is leading in KwaZulu Natal and emerging as a major contender nationwide. Despite the ANC’s historical dominance, the MK has captured a sizable portion of the vote, signaling a shift in the country’s political landscape. This decline in support for the ANC is attributed to years of systemic corruption, economic inequality, and high levels of poverty. Populist Politics…

Read More

South Africa Faces Uncertain Future as Elections Unfold As South Africa held its elections, the spotlight shifted to the country’s youth – the generation known as the “Tintswalos.” One young voter, Mpimo Hlavanganwane, reflected the struggle facing many young South Africans despite growing up in a post-apartheid era. Despite having an accounting degree, Hlavanganwane remained unemployed, highlighting a national crisis where 45.5 percent of young people are without jobs. This reality prompted him to break from his family’s ANC ties and seek change through his vote. With election promises of job creation from the ANC, many voters like Hlavanganwane remained…

Read More

Johannesburg, South Africa – South Africa’s highest court has made a decisive ruling, barring former President Jacob Zuma from becoming a member of parliament. Despite this setback, experts believe Zuma’s political influence remains strong as he leads the new uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party. With the upcoming general elections in sight, Zuma’s ambitions to return to parliament and reclaim the presidency have been thwarted by legal challenges stemming from his past contempt of court conviction. The Constitutional Court’s ruling prohibits Zuma from running for parliament for the next five years. Despite these legal obstacles, Zuma’s loyal supporters continue to rally…

Read More