GOVERNMENT OF NATIONAL UNITY (GNU)

OPERATIONALISATION OF THE GOVERNMENT OF NATIONAL UNITY

On July 3rd, 2024, South Africa marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of the Government of National Unity (GNU). This significant event saw the swearingin of the Deputy President, Ministers, and Deputy Ministers from various political parties, reflecting a broad-based coalition committed to inclusive governance. The formation of the GNU arises from the recent electoral outcomes and an agreement among political parties to collaborate, moving beyond partisan divisions to address the nation's pressing challenges.

The establishment of the Government of National Unity represents a significant step forward in South Africa's democratic journey. It exemplifies the nation's commitment to inclusive governance, unity in diversity, and effective policy-making.

Strategic Imperatives and Framework of the GNU

In his address on June 30th, 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa described the GNU's establishment as "unprecedented in our democracy's history," highlighting its foundational principles and core priorities as articulated in the Statement of Intent. This framework sets the stage for a governance model that emphasizes inclusivity, collaboration, and strategic alignment with national development goals.

The operational framework of the GNU is rooted in the constitutional provisions where Executive authority is exercised collectively by the President and Cabinet members under section 85(2) of the Constitution. This collective responsibility ensures that the implementation of national legislation, policy development, coordination of state departments, and legislative initiatives are conducted in a manner that reflects the diverse perspectives within the coalition. The President and Cabinet members share the duty of steering the country towards achieving its socio-economic objectives, ensuring that all decisions and policies are inclusive and representative of the diverse South African populace.

Decision-Making and Policy Implementation: A Collaborative Approach

The GNU's decision-making process is designed to foster collaboration and consensus-building. Non-routine matters and decisions with significant financial implications are brought before the Cabinet for approval. This approach ensures that key decisions are made collectively, preventing unilateral actions that could undermine the GNU's integrity and effectiveness.

The President and individual Ministers are obligated to present significant policy issues, decisions with financial consequences, and other critical matters to the Cabinet for consideration. This process reinforces the principle of collective responsibility and ensures that all major decisions are aligned with the GNU's overarching goals and principles.

Establishing Government Priorities and Programme of Action

The GNU's strategic direction is encapsulated in the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which aligns with the National Development Plan (Vision 2030) and the manifestos of the coalition parties. The Forum of South Africa Directors-General (FOSAD), led by the Director-General in The Presidency, conducted a thorough analysis of the coalition parties' manifestos. The resulting proposal, discussed and adopted at the Cabinet Lekgotla on July 11th-12th, 2024, outlines the government's priorities and programme of action.

The MTSF provides a structured roadmap for achieving the GNU's objectives, with individual departments tasked with developing Strategic Plans and Annual Performance Plans that align with the MTSF targets. This alignment ensures that all government initiatives are coordinated and focused on achieving the overarching goals of

inclusive growth, socio-economic development, and national unity.

Funding and Oversight: Ensuring Accountability and Transparency

The National Treasury plays a crucial role in funding the implementation of the MTSF through the National Budget, which is tabled and approved by Parliament. The Department of Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (DPME) is responsible for overseeing and reporting on the implementation of the MTSF and the Annual Performance Plans. This oversight ensures that all government actions are aligned with the MTSF and that performance metrics are tracked and reported to both the President and the Cabinet. Regular reporting and evaluation of government initiatives promote accountability and transparency, essential components for building public trust and confidence in the GNU.

Transition of Ministers: Ensuring Continuity and Strategic Alignment

The transition from the 6th to the 7th Administration underscores the importance of continuity and

strategic alignment in the GNU's operations. Ministers from the 6th Administration concluded their roles on June 19th, 2024, coinciding with the assumption of office by the 7th Administration's President. The new Ministers were sworn in on July 3rd, 2024, and have since been engaging in departmental briefings and strategic planning ahead of the Cabinet Lekgotla. This transition period allows for a seamless handover of responsibilities, ensuring that the new administration can build on the achievements of its predecessor while setting the strategic direction for the future.

Emphasizing Unity and Collaboration: The Pillars of the GNU

The GNU's establishment marks a significant milestone in South Africa's democratic evolution, emphasizing the principles of unity, inclusivity, and collaboration. By integrating diverse political viewpoints, the GNU aims to foster comprehensive policy-making that is responsive to the needs and aspirations of all South Africans. The success of the GNU hinges on the collective commitment of all stakeholders to prioritize national interests over partisan divides, working together to address the country's socio-economic challenges and promote sustainable development.

Addressing National Interests and Challenges: A Holistic Approach

The GNU is uniquely positioned to address a wide range of national interests and challenges, leveraging the diversity of perspectives within its coalition structure. This inclusive approach allows for the development of more comprehensive and effective policies that cater to the diverse needs of the South African populace. By incorporating inputs from various stakeholders, the GNU can develop strategies to tackle socio-economic disparities, promote sustainable development, and ensure equitable resource distribution across all regions of the country.

Enhancing Governance and Institutional Capacity: A Collaborative Effort

A key mandate of the GNU is to enhance governance structures and institutional capacity through collaboration and shared responsibility among coalition partners. This approach fosters better coordination among government departments and agencies, leading to more cohesive and integrated policy implementation. The emphasis on strategic planning and performance management ensures that the GNU's actions are focused and purposeful, enabling effective monitoring and evaluation of government initiatives. By continuously improving governance practices, the GNU aims to build a more efficient and responsive government that can effectively address the needs of its citizens.

Building a Resilient and Inclusive Economy: Strategic Priorities

One of the GNU's top priorities is to build a resilient and inclusive economy that benefits all South Africans. This entails promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment in critical infrastructure to stimulate economic growth and job creation. The government aims to create an enabling environment for business development, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and encouraging foreign investment. Additionally, the GNU prioritizes social development and human capital investment, ensuring access to quality education, healthcare, and social services for all citizens. These initiatives are essential for enhancing the well-being and capabilities of the population, thereby fostering sustainable development and inclusive growth.

Promoting Social Cohesion and National Unity: Strengthening the Social Fabric

The establishment of the GNU is not only about governance and policy-making but also about promoting social cohesion and national unity. By fostering dialogue, respect, and understanding among diverse communities, the government aims to build a more cohesive and harmonious society. Celebrating South Africa's cultural diversity and heritage plays a crucial role in promoting national identity and pride. Inclusive governance practices that involve civil society and other stakeholders contribute to building trust and legitimacy in government institutions. These efforts are vital for strengthening the social fabric and fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity among all citizens.

Strengthening Economic Sectors: Fostering Growth and Competitiveness

The GNU's economic strategy focuses on strengthening key sectors to drive growth and enhance competitiveness. Key industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, mining, and services are targeted for development and support.

By investing in infrastructure, technology, and skills development, the government aims to boost productivity and innovation in these sectors. Initiatives to improve market access, streamline regulatory processes, and provide financial incentives are also part of the strategy to foster a more dynamic and competitive economy. The GNU's approach emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships in driving economic growth and creating sustainable employment opportunities.

The operational framework of the GNU is rooted in the constitutional provisions where Executive authority is exercised collectively by the President and Cabinet members under section 85(2) of the Constitution.

Advancing Digital Transformation: Embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution

The GNU recognizes the critical role of digital transformation in driving economic growth and improving service delivery. By embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the government aims to harness the potential of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and the Internet of Things. Investments in digital infrastructure, skills development, and innovation ecosystems are central to the GNU's digital strategy. The government also prioritizes the digitalization of public services to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. By fostering a digital economy, the GNU seeks to position South Africa as a leader in technology and innovationon the African continent and beyond.

Promoting Environmental Sustainability: A Green Growth Agenda

Environmental sustainability is a key component of the GNU's agenda, reflecting a commitment to green growth and sustainable development. The government aims to balance economic growth with environmental protection, ensuring that development efforts do not compromise the health of ecosystems and natural resources. Initiatives to promote renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance resource efficiency are central to the green growth agenda. The GNU also focuses on strengthening environmental regulations and enforcement mechanisms to protect biodiversity and combat climate change. By promoting sustainable practices across all sectors, the government seeks to create a resilient economy that can adapt to environmental challenges and ensure the wellbeing of future generations.

Enhancing International Relations: Building Strategic Partnerships

The GNU recognizes the importance of international relations in achieving its national development goals. By building strategic partnerships with other countries, regional organizations, and international institutions, the government aims to enhance trade, investment, and cooperation. These partnerships are crucial for accessing global markets, attracting foreign investment, and benefiting from technological and knowledge transfers. The GNU's foreign policy emphasizes the principles of mutual respect, solidarity, and cooperation, aligning with South Africa's commitment to multilateralism and global governance. By strengthening its international relations, the government seeks to position South Africa as a key player in global affairs and contribute to regional and global stability and prosperity.

Conclusion

The establishment of the Government of National Unity represents a significant step forward in South Africa's democratic journey. It exemplifies the nation's commitment to inclusive governance, unity in diversity, and effective policy-making. As the GNU embarks on its mandate, it is essential or all stakeholders to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and collaboration. By working together and focusing on national interests, the GNU can address socioeconomic challenges, promote sustainable development, and build a prosperous future for all South Africans. Through strategic alignment and collective action, the GNU aims to set a positive example for democratic governance and contribute to South Africa's continued progress and prosperity. The success of the GNU will depend on the collective commitment and efforts of all South Africans to build a better, more inclusive, and sustainable future for the nation.