As South Africa approaches its pivotal 2026 local government elections, the political landscape is more tumultuous and unpredictable than it has been in decades. 

Central to this upheaval is the Government of National Unity (GNU), a fragile coalition that has reshaped the country’s political dynamics since its formation in 2024. 

While the GNU has demonstrated remarkable achievements and resilience, questions loom about its future amid mounting opposition, criticism, and deep-seated ideological divides.

In 2024, South Africa made history when major political parties agreed to form a coalition government, an unprecedented move to stabilise a nation fractured by years of political infighting, economic crises, and social unrest. 

The GNU was heralded as a bold governance experiment, promising to bridge divides and deliver tangible reforms in critical sectors, including health, education, and economic development

The UDM, led by General Bantu Holomisa, has been a vocal advocate within the GNU, emphasising the importance of remaining a player. 

“Our influence isn’t measured by seats but by the substance of our contributions,” Holomisa told IOL. 

“We focus on strengthening oversight, accountability, and delivering real change, particularly in defense and veteran affairs.”

Similarly, the IFP’s Velenkosi Hlabisa highlighted his party’s contributions to the Cooperative Governance and Transport portfolios. In contrast, Patricia de Lille’s GOOD party has strategically shaped the government’s priorities. 

Despite their small size, these parties believe their substantive arguments help steer policy and ensure that the GNU remains committed to its stated goals.

However, the coalition faces significant hurdles. The ideological chasm between the major parties, most notably the ANC, DA, and opposition groups, remains a persistent obstacle. 

The opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the MK Party have strongly criticized the GNU, accusing it of betraying revolutionary principles by partnering with what they deride as “white capitalist” parties.

The EFF’s leader, Julius Malema, has repeatedly dismissed the GNU as a “sell-out” arrangement, vowing never to cooperate with the Democratic Alliance (DA). 

“The ANC sold out by forming a coalition that sidelines the interests of the oppressed,” Malema declared last year. 

His stance reflects broader distrust among radical factions who view the GNU as a betrayal of the liberation struggle.

Inside the coalition, voices like Holomisa and de Lille emphasise their commitment to principled governance, but the cracks are evident. 

Critics argue that the coalition is held together more by expediency than ideology, with some questioning whether it can sustain the political compromises necessary ahead of the 2026 local elections.

Renowned scholar and activist Prof. Rev. Allan Boesak has been particularly outspoken about the state of the GNU. At the Walter Sisulu Foundation inaugural lecture last week, Boesak expressed grave concerns.

“What remains of justice, security, and dignity for most South Africans under this GNU? Or are we merely entrenching neo-liberal policies that deepen inequality and undermine sovereignty?”

Boesak argues that the coalition is more a “viper’s nest of contradictions,” held together by self-interest rather than shared vision. 

He pointed to the “costly, unwieldy cabinet,” and the troubling alliances that continue to tie South Africa to imperialist and neo-colonialist interests, particularly in foreign policy and economic dealings.

His critique extends to South Africa’s international stance, highlighting ongoing diplomatic ties with regimes accused of genocide and the influence of foreign powers, notably Western and Zionist interests, which he claims have eroded the nation’s moral authority. 

“This is not about unity,” Boesak asserts. “It’s about who controls our land, minerals, and future.”

As the 2026 elections approach, the GNU’s sustainability remains uncertain. Smaller parties like the UDM and GOOD are cautiously optimistic but acknowledge the delicate balance they maintain. 

Historian Khaya Mthethwa stated that the coalition’s survival hinges on reconciling diverse policies and interests.

“The challenge is how these disparate patches find their voice within the GNU and advocate for their constituencies,” Mthethwa explained. 

Moving into the elections, their ability to campaign effectively while maintaining coalition unity will be tested. The GNU has given smaller parties a previously lacking platform, but at what cost?”

The GNU’s experiment in coalition politics has already altered South Africa’s political landscape, forcing major parties to reconsider their strategies and priorities. 

It has also energised smaller parties and civil society groups that see the coalition as a chance for meaningful influence.

However, Mthethea warned that unless the coalition addresses its internal contradictions and the deep-rooted socio-economic issues, it risks collapse just as the next election looms. 

“The stakes are high: the future of South Africa’s democracy, economic sovereignty, and social justice depend on whether the GNU can transition from a fragile compromise to a durable governance model.”

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

IOL Politics

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