Ramaphosa Calls for Unity in Building SA with New Government of National Unity

The new government is set to hold a lekgotla to develop its program for the next five years, which will be presented at the Opening of Parliament on July 18.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his weekly newsletter to call on all South Africans to work closely together to build a unified and prosperous nation. This follows his announcement of the Cabinet for the seventh administration, which includes members from the Government of National Unity (GNU).

“In the spirit of partnership and collaboration, the incoming government will work with various formations to convene a National Dialogue. All parties, civil society groups, labor, business, and other stakeholders will be invited to address the critical challenges facing the nation,” President Ramaphosa stated on Monday.

He emphasized that the formation of the GNU reflects the electorate's desire for collaborative governance, as no party achieved an outright majority in the recent elections. “We have honored our commitment to the South African people to work together for the country’s good, delivering a united government. This provides a foundation for greater stability, coherence, and focused implementation.”

For the first time in South Africa’s history, a broad range of political parties will form a government. Ramaphosa highlighted the significance of this inclusive approach, noting that it fulfills the electorate's mandate for a government that serves all citizens. “South Africans recognize that a GNU is the best path forward. As political leaders, we must prove ourselves worthy of the trust placed in us.”

The incoming government will be guided by a Statement of Intent, which outlines key principles and priorities. These include rapid, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, tackling poverty and inequality, continuing economic reforms in critical sectors like electricity, telecommunications, water, and transport, and enhancing investment in infrastructure and business environments.

“The GNU will protect workers' rights and ensure adequate social protection for the poor and vulnerable. We will invest in quality education and healthcare, build state capacity, address crime and corruption, and strengthen social cohesion. Our foreign policy will be based on human rights, solidarity, and peace,” the President outlined.

The new government is set to hold a lekgotla to develop its program for the next five years, which will be presented at the Opening of Parliament on July 18. “While the Ministers and Deputy Ministers come from different parties, they are expected to serve all people, implementing a shared mandate and common action plan,” Ramaphosa assured.