Six reasons why the Government of national unity might collapse.

Illustrative image, from left: The IFP’s Velenkosini Hlabisa. (Photo: Gallo Images / Darren Stewart) | The DA’s John Steenhuisen. (Photo: Felix Dlangamandla) | President Cyril Ramaphosa (Photo: Julia Evans) | The PA’s Gayton McKenzie. (Photo: Shelley Christians) | The Good party’s Patricia de Lille. (Photo: Gallo Images / ER Lombard)

Maleka Charles

Following the Democratic Alliance’s warning that the Government of National Unity (GNU) would collapse if it withdrew.

Thus forcing The ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula to respond by saying that even if the DA were to leave the government, the GNU would not fall — as there are other parties ready to join and keep it stable.

Below are six reasons why the Government of National Unity might still face collapse:

🔹 1. Conflicting Ideologies and Agendas

Parties within the GNU — such as the ANC, DA, IFP, and others — have very different visions for South Africa, from economic policy to social priorities. When these ideologies clash and no compromise is reached, it breeds tension and mistrust.

Example: disagreements over BEE policies, public sector reform, or foreign relations.

🔹 2. Power Struggles and Ego Politics

Coalition politics often turns into a contest for positions, influence, and control — who gets which ministry, who speaks for government, and who takes credit for achievements. Once one party feels side-lined, it can destabilize the entire unity project.

🔹 3. Lack of Clear Agreements

If GNU partners did not establish a strong, enforceable coalition agreement — with clear rules for decision-making, budgets, and accountability — every disagreement risks becoming a political crisis.

🔹 4. Pressure from Party Supporters

Party leaders face constant pressure from their supporters.

For example, DA voters may view the ANC as corrupt, while ANC loyalists may see the DA as anti-transformation. Over time, these opposing sentiments can force leaders to withdraw in order to protect their party’s image.

🔹 5. Economic and Social Frustrations

If the GNU fails to deliver visible progress — in jobs, service delivery, safety, and stability — public frustration will grow. When citizens lose faith, parties begin to blame one another, which can quickly unravel the coalition.

🔹 6. Election Strategy

Some parties may deliberately exit the GNU before the next election to preserve their image, claiming they tried to cooperate but others refused. This allows them to campaign as victims or reformers seeking a “fresh start.”