Mbalula tells DA 'free to leave' GNU

Speaking on Sunday, ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula said the DA's recent conduct threatens the spirit and stability of the GNU, and labelling its decision not to participate in the National Dialogue a “deliberate act of political sabotage.”

"If they propose a motion of no confidence [in President Cyril Ramaphosa], it means they are out of the GNU,” Mbalula warned.

“We are not moved by threats or ultimatums. Government is not run by blackmail. If the DA believes this GNU no longer serves them, they are free to leave.”

The rebuke comes after DA leader John Steenhuisen publicly rejected the National Dialogue initiative, labelling it a 'waste of time and money' amid reports it could cost taxpayers an estimated R700 million.

In response, Mbalula clarified that the National Dialogue was not an ANC initiative but a broad civil society-led effort endorsed by the government to engage South Africans on key socio-economic and political challenges.

"There is no ANC capturing the dialogue. It’s not about political point-scoring. It’s a national effort to strengthen our democracy and nationhood, the DA’s rejection reveals their disregard for inclusive governance,” Mbalula said.

The ANC accused the DA of using the dialogue rejection as retaliation for the recent removal of DA deputy minister Andrew Whitfield, who was axed for breaching executive protocols.

"This response speaks volumes about the DA’s character," the ANC said in a statement. "They are willing to undermine national interests for narrow partisan gain."

The ANC also took issue with the DA's threat to vote against budget allocations for ministries led by ANC ministers under investigation for corruption, including Human Settlements and Higher Education.

As political tensions deepen, the ANC’s National Working Committee is set to meet on Monday to consider the party’s next steps within the GNU framework.

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