As South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) marks its first year in office, opinions remain sharply divided on its performance. Some ministers have emerged as coalition-era stars, while others have floundered, raising questions about leadership, accountability, and the country’s economic prospects.

Drawing from interviews, policy trackers, and expert analysis, IOL assess who has delivered, and who has been missing in action.

The GNU expanded its cabinet from 30 to 32 members, alongside an increase in deputy ministers from 36 to 43. 

“By global standards, this represents a large executive,” said political analyst Theo Neethling of the University of the Free State. However, Neethling highlighted that the coalition structure of the GNU is generally more acceptable to South Africans than a single-party government, formed in direct response to calls for greater cooperation to address pressing national challenges.

“The GNU,with its broader representation and diversity of voices, is more responsive and accountable to the public than previous cabinets, particularly compared to the era when state capture became a defining feature of governance,” Neethling said.

According to Neethling, certain ministers have distinguished themselves through effective leadership and policy direction. He viewed Parks Tau as an “inspired choice” in the Trade, Industry and Competition portfolio, noting that this critical ministry benefits significantly from Tau’s leadership.

Ronald Lamola, though initially seen as inexperienced in foreign affairs, has nonetheless “performed commendably” in his role as Minister of International Affairs. Senzo Mchunu, previously recognised for his effectiveness in the Water and Sanitation portfolio, is regarded as a “considerable improvement” in his new role as Police Minister.

Enoch Godongwana is credited with showing “a steady hand at Treasury,” and Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has competently managed the demanding Electricity and Energy portfolio. 

Neethling added, “These are some of the most capable ANC ministers, who collectively hold over 60% of Cabinet positions.”

Neethling also identifies strong contributions from opposition figures. IFP leader Velenkosini Hlabisa has brought “a calm and measured approach” to Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, with a focus on stabilising local government and modernising traditional leadership structures.

The DA’s ministers are generally viewed as having performed well across their six portfolios. Neethling singled out Leon Schreiber as particularly effective in the Home Affairs department, a space that has long required reform.

DA leader John Steenhuisen is commended for his dual role in the Cabinet and in navigating his party’s participation in the coalition. Meanwhile, Gayton McKenzie, the PA leader, has made waves with what Neethling described as an “energetic and larger-than-life persona,” although public opinion about his impact remains divided.

But not all ministers have met expectations.Neethling was critical of some ministers who continue to underperform, notably Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe, who remains politically shielded despite poor performance.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s legacy of enabling patronage networks raises serious concerns, and Angie Motshekga’s tenure as minister of defence and military veterans has been “utterly disappointing,” especially given the portfolio’s importance to South Africa’s international image.

Concerns about transparency and accountability are echoed by Letlhogonolo Letshele, a campaigner at Open Secrets. On financial transparency and procurement, Letshele noted, “No, not really,” pointing out that despite the Public Procurement Act signing in 2024, it has yet to come into force due to missing regulations.

This leaves procurement vulnerable to corruption as contracts are still awarded to politically connected individuals through fraudulent tenders, she said. 

Regarding public accountability, Letshele stated bluntly: “I do not think there is [leadership on accountability].”

The finance minister and department failed to explain the opaque 2025 budget impasse, and the Presidency has struggled to report on progress implementing the Zondo Commission’s recommendations, she said. 

Despite this, there is a slight positive: “In January 2025, the committee was established [to oversee the President and Presidency]. This makes the president more accountable.”

Open Secrets maintains a detailed tracker monitoring the implementation of the Zondo recommendations and ongoing accountability efforts, said Letshele. 

Lecturer and political analyst Zakhele Ndlovu from UKZN reflected on the GNU’s economic challenges and prospects: “We find ourselves at a crossroads, where political parties have the chance to set aside divisive identity politics and address the country’s deeply ingrained challenges.”

Yet, eight months on, fundamental disagreements between the ANC and DA remain, illustrated by failed compromises on the Bela Bill, NHI Bill, expropriation, and the budget impasse.

Ndlovu pointed out, “While all these bills were passed without the DA’s support, it nevertheless remained in the GNU.” This has caused tension, culminating in the DA turning to the courts over the budget dispute, casting doubt on the coalition’s future cohesion.

On economic challenges, Ndlovu identified collapsing infrastructure and dysfunctional state-owned enterprises (SOEs) as the most urgent concerns. He noted regular water and electricity interruptions and failing rail infrastructure, which impede business operations and disproportionately harm the working class.

“Mismanagement and corruption have reduced state-owned enterprises into wobbly entities, forcing the state to regularly bail them out. These parastatals used to employ thousands but no longer do,” he warned, highlighting the dire need for reform.

Ndlovu stressed the importance of appointing ministers based on merit rather than political considerations: “For example, the Minister of Defence Angie Motshekga  is a former Minister of Education, while the Bantu Holomisa the deputy is an army general. This does not make sense. We need to make sure that we appoint people based on merit.”

He also highlighted the importance of international relations, particularly with the United States: “South Africa’s economy still heavily depends on the United States;  we need to have good relations with the US because if we don’t, it’s going to hurt our economy, increase poverty, and affect employment.”

He praised President Ramaphosa’s efforts to improve ties with the US, describing the recent White House visit as a hopeful sign of unity within the GNU, despite internal differences.

hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za

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