Nearly one year after South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) was formed, many citizens and political observers are asking the same question: has this historic political partnership achieved its purpose? The GNU, which brought together different political parties under one umbrella, was meant to create peace, solve national problems, and bring lasting reforms. But the journey so far has been mixed with hope, doubt, and political drama.
The Government of National Unity came into being in 2024 following a tightly contested general election. No single party secured an outright majority in Parliament, so major parties, including the African National Congress (ANC), the Democratic Alliance (DA), and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), agreed to form a coalition government. The agreement was celebrated across the continent as a new model for African politics — one where collaboration replaces confrontation. President Cyril Ramaphosa retained his seat under the deal, and Deputy President Paul Mashatile became one of the key figures coordinating GNU activities.
The first few months of the coalition gave many people hope. Power cuts, which had been a huge problem under Eskom, were briefly suspended. The stock market responded positively, and the rand appreciated in value. Business leaders praised the cooperation between the private sector and government. Analysts said South Africa was moving in the right direction.
However, that optimism has started to fade. One of the major early tests of the GNU was the national budget. The proposed increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) created serious tension among the coalition members. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana was forced to drop the VAT hike proposal to avoid the collapse of the budget vote. This showed how fragile the alliance really is. The disagreement also delayed the approval of the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement — a key economic document — for months.
Although the government avoided a shutdown, many believe it was a sign that deep divisions still exist in the coalition. Parties that are supposed to work together continue to pull in different directions. The DA, which favours free-market policies, often clashes with the ANC on issues like labour reform and privatisation. Even within the ANC, there are disagreements among different factions.
Meanwhile, the country’s economy remains weak. According to recent reports from Statistics South Africa, the GDP showed no growth in the first quarter of 2025. The mining and manufacturing sectors — two pillars of the economy — have suffered six straight months of decline. Youth unemployment is still very high, and crime rates continue to worry both locals and investors.
Foreign investors are also watching closely. While some money came into the Johannesburg Stock Exchange earlier this year, analysts say foreign investment remains shaky. Policy uncertainty is a major reason. The Policy Uncertainty Index, which tracks investor confidence, showed an unstable pattern throughout the year. Investors want clear and predictable government policies, something the GNU has not fully delivered.
Public opinion about the Government of National Unity is divided. Some South Africans feel the coalition is a step in the right direction. Others believe it is just a political arrangement without real benefit to the people. Several civil society groups have organised protests over poor service delivery, corruption, and lack of economic opportunities. For many citizens, life has not improved under the coalition.
As 2026 draws closer, the GNU faces more pressure to prove that it can govern effectively. The local government elections next year will be a major test. Voters will decide whether to continue supporting the parties in the coalition or to shift their allegiance. If the GNU fails to deliver meaningful change, it risks losing public trust.
Experts say the coalition must focus on unity, service delivery, and economic growth. It must stop internal power struggles and work together for the good of the people. South Africa’s future depends on strong leadership, sound economic policies, and a genuine commitment to reform.
In summary, South Africa’s Government of National Unity started with high hopes, but its first year has been full of challenges. From budget disputes to weak economic performance, the GNU still has a long way to go before it can say it has delivered on its promises.
