Ideological conflicts a significant threat to GNU’s survival. Image credit: Presidency ZA
The meeting took place on Monday, 3rd November 2025 and its purpose was to bring leaders of 10 political parties together, with the common goal to combat pressing issues such as unemployment, crime, poverty, cost of living and corruption and the quality of service delivery.
According to the Presidency’s knowledge, all present leaders met in one setting for a time of reflection on the progress made with the implementation of priorities that have been identified in the GNU’s statement of Intent.
In addition to having a discussion in regards to national and international issues, as well as addressing all critical challenges identified which the country is currently faced with.
The meeting was led and held by President Cyril Ramaphosa alongside Deputy Minister, Paul Mashatile.
Political Leaders attendees were the following: Velenkosini Hlabisa (IFP), Corne Mulder (FF Plus), Bantu Holomisa (UDF), Ganief Hendricks (AI Jama-ah), Brett Herron (Good), Mzwanele Nyohntso (PAC), Gayton McKenzie (PA), John Steenhuisen (DA), and lastly, Songezo Zibi (Rise Mzansi).
All 10 parties stated in a joint media statement that their leaders were unanimous in agreeing that the GNU is “united and is also strengthened”
“During the meeting, it was agreed upon that this forum of political party leaders would be something that will be implemented and considered a necessity on a regular basis from this point onwards, as its purpose is to plan and provide a feasible political direction to the work of the GNU.”
The statement that was made gave acknowledgement to all difficulties the GNU is facing which might have a negative effect on the normal functionality of the organization, mostly around the issue regarding the 2025 budget process.
The Democratic Alliance political party (DA) which is a known member of he GNU had allegedly opposed the budget was later on passed down.
It was said that “All parties which have been reaffirmed in their commitment to the GNU was done so as a reflection of the will of voters as an instrument used in advancing all South African interest.”
The political leaders said that over the past 16 months following the the officialization of the Statement of Intent, the GNU has prioritized stability and the leadership of South Africa.
“The GNU is constantly focused on resolving concerns of South African citizens such as poverty, the high cost of living and disrupted livelihoods, crime, poverty, low quality service delivery and corruption.”
They further added that the GNU has succeeded in bring together parties from various political traditions with the aim of pursuing a common programme aimed at driving inclusive job creations, opportunities and inclusive growth, as well as building a capable development state.
The GNU has been reported to have established a platform for growth through energy reformation , logistics, water, visas and telecommunication.
“It has embarked on journey of massive infrastructure building and drive which is a response tactic to the tariff increases, worked to have diversity within exports an expansion into new and existing markets: priorotized expansion in early childhood development and to strengthen the foundational phase in years of learning.”
The Presidency has confirmed that the GNU has made progress in providing work and feasible livelihood opportunities to the youth through public employment programmes, sustained spending for to support under privileged families and households.
They have also succeeded in providing macroeconomic stability and have achieved a primary budget surplus and as well as having pursued a responsible fiscal path in reducing the country’s debt burden to make room for more resources and investments.
Leaders have confirmed that efforts in removing South Africa from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) “badbooks” , alongside legislative reformation.
The work done by the Special Investigating Unit has been discovered to have heightened the country’s ability to prevent , investigate and prosecute serious acts of crime and corruption.
Whilst giving credit to where it is due in terms of the level of evident progress there has been over the last 16 months, leaders stated that work must be accelerated so that its impact can be felt by all South African Citizens.
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