GNU: IFP's Position on Interpretation of Clause 24

20 June 2024

The IFP has taken note of the on-going public disagreements between the ANC’s Mr Fikile Mbalula and the DA’s Mrs Helen Zille, as it pertains to clause 24 of the Government of National Unity (GNU) statement of intent.

To that end, the IFP President Hon. Velenkosini Hlabisa MP has tasked the IFP’s coalition negotiations task team, led by its Deputy President - Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi MP - to engage with both parties.

We are of the opinion that there is an urgent need to iron out the differences through a joint meeting by the members of the GNU.

We do not believe that the current situation is a crisis. It is necessary teething problems for a new GNU dispensation.

The GNU is a coalition government.

One of the elements for a successful coalition government is that whenever there are differences of opinions, there must be joint engagement by GNU partners in order to find common ground, and in order to speak with one voice.

Constant engagement will remain the only way to strengthen the foundations for the current and future coalition government arrangements.

Evidently, more difficult issues and questions will arise in the next five years. But the solution will be how the GNU partners rise to meet these challenges, and iron them out amicably.

The IFP, as a responsible GNU Partner, is committed to playing an active role in order to ensure that we to always reach common ground, in order to take our country forward.

Issued by the IFP, 20 June 2024