South African opposition parties are engaged in crucial talks to deliberate on the ruling African National Congress' proposal to form a government of national unity. Following the recent election where the ANC fell short of a majority, some opposition parties are hesitant to accept the offer due to deep-rooted divisions.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), a major opposition party, is set to convene on Monday to discuss its stance on the negotiations. Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a leftist party, are also in discussions regarding the ANC's proposal.
With a deadline of June 16 looming, parties are under pressure to reach an agreement within 14 days of the election results being declared, as per South Africa's constitution. The ANC's call for a government of national unity comes amidst significant disparities not only between the opposition parties and the ANC on socioeconomic policies but also among the opposition parties themselves.
While some parties like ActionSA have already declined to participate in the negotiations, citing an unwillingness to collaborate with the ANC, others like the Inkatha Freedom Party have expressed openness to the idea of a government of national unity, pending further internal discussions.
The EFF, a key player with over 9% of the national vote, has rejected the ANC's proposal, criticizing the ANC's approach despite its failure to secure a majority. The DA, the second-largest party with over 21% of the national vote, is set to deliberate on its options in a meeting on Monday.
As the negotiations unfold, the composition of the next government in South Africa, the continent's most developed economy, is being closely watched by economists and markets. The outcome of these talks will determine the economic policies that the government will pursue in the coming years.
