Unconventional numerical manipulation tactics under scrutiny
In a twist worthy of Dante, ANC chair Gwede Mantashe likened the GNU debate to a self-inflicted burn. Mantashe's fiery comments at the National Freedom Day commemoration questioned the ANC's decision to collaborate with the DA instead of parties like Jacob Zuma's MK Party and Julius Malema's EFF, both splinter groups of the ANC.
Mantashe, loosening his scripted remarks, asserted, "People criticize us for the GNU. They ask, 'Why do you talk to the DA?' It's not about your friend, it's about your enemy." He went on to compare working with the DA to escaping a devil andRunning into the fire."
The ongoing budget impasse, sparked by the scrapped VAT hike, has set the stage for a third national budget. This time, the process isn't solely in the hands of ANC finance minister Enoch Godongwana and the National Treasury, but relies on approval from the GNU—whatever its makeup, be it with or without the DA.
Last week, the ANC and the DA held informal "talks about talks," focusing on the way forward for the budget process and the GNU. Despite the tense road ahead, the DA appears to favor remaining in the GNU, but this position could shift based on the upcoming budget discussions.
The DA has consistently pushed for economic reform to be central to the GNU's agenda, aiming to grow the economy and create jobs. However, the ANC and the DA have clashed over the "how," a point of contention ahead of Enoch Godongwana's second budget tabling on March 12 and a potential point of discord in the approach to the third budget attempt.
As for the future, a revised budget is set for presentation on May 22, signaling efforts to resolve the impasse and maintain the GNU's stability. Moreover, public perception polls favor the DA in the aftermath of the budget debacle, viewing the ANC's approach as less collaborative[4]. In essence, the DA's continued participation in the GNU remains uncertain as both parties navigate these challenges[1][3][4].
Mantashe's fiery remarks during the National Freedom Day commemoration also touched upon the ongoing budget impasse, stating, "It's not just about the GNU debate, it's about the economy and finance as well." He continued, "With the upcoming budget discussions and policy-and-legislation decisions, the general-news landscape will be heavily influenced by the political dynamics between the ANC, DA, and other parties."
