Cape Town, July 17, 2025 — President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated his unwavering support for the Government of National Unity (GNU), asserting that it remains committed to driving rapid and sustainable economic growth despite internal disagreements and mounting national challenges.
Responding to a heated parliamentary debate on the Presidency’s budget vote, Ramaphosa acknowledged the tensions among coalition partners but emphasized that unity and collective effort were essential to resolving South Africa’s deeply entrenched problems.
“We face challenges that are complex and daunting—some inherited from our past, others of our own making. But all of them require us to act with courage and bravery,” Ramaphosa told Parliament on Thursday afternoon.
GNU Faces Criticism, but Ramaphosa Stands Firm
Ramaphosa’s remarks came a day after the United Democratic Movement (UDM) voiced concern about the stability of the GNU during Wednesday’s budget debate. The party criticized the lack of a binding coalition agreement, formal policy discussion forums, and robust dispute resolution mechanisms—warning that the alliance remains on “shaky ground.”
Despite these concerns, Ramaphosa struck a tone of cautious optimism. He admitted that disagreements among GNU partners were real but insisted that they were not unexpected, nor were they insurmountable.
“There have indeed been disagreements and disputes among GNU members—as you would expect in any coalition arrangement,” Ramaphosa said. “Yet, despite those differences, the GNU partners have chosen to work together for the common good of all South Africans.”
The GNU, formed following the 2024 general elections that produced no outright majority, brings together a range of political parties that span the ideological spectrum. This diversity has led to policy clashes, but Ramaphosa maintains that cooperation is still possible and necessary for national progress.
One of the central themes of Ramaphosa’s address was the GNU’s continued focus on economic transformation. He highlighted that the coalition government remains committed to rapid and sustainable economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction—even in the face of political turbulence.
He also acknowledged the urgent need for inclusive policies that address youth unemployment, infrastructure decay, and systemic inequality. “We cannot build a better future for our people unless we confront these issues head-on, with vision, discipline, and shared purpose,” Ramaphosa said.
The president cited several economic milestones achieved under the GNU, including renewed investor confidence, progress on renewable energy projects, and ongoing reforms in key state institutions. However, he conceded that far more needed to be done to translate these gains into tangible benefits for ordinary South Africans.
In response to opposition claims that the government had made little progress in improving quality of life, Ramaphosa pushed back, arguing that critics often ignore the progress made since the dawn of democracy in 1994.
“It is neither fair nor accurate to dismiss the substantial gains we’ve made as a nation,” he said. “We have built institutions, expanded access to basic services, and uplifted millions from poverty. While we recognize the work still ahead, let us not be blind to the progress that has brought us here.”
The president added that public trust must be earned through accountability, transparency, and service delivery—and that the GNU is striving to meet these expectations.
Closing his speech, Ramaphosa appealed to all political parties, civil society, and citizens to contribute constructively to South Africa’s recovery. He underscored that courage, resilience, and a willingness to compromise are vital for overcoming the complex social and economic hurdles that lie ahead.
“Now more than ever, we must be guided not by short-term political gains but by the long-term well-being of our people. Nation-building is not easy. It demands bravery—not just from leaders, but from every South African who dreams of a better future,” Ramaphosa concluded.
As the GNU navigates its second year, the path remains uncertain—but Ramaphosa’s message is clear: unity, courage, and shared responsibility are South Africa’s best hope for a more prosperous and inclusive future.
Source- EWN
