WATCH | WE HAVE A DEAL: DA TO BACK RAMAPHOSA FOR PRESIDENT

Fri 14 June 2024:

After agreeing to be a part of a government of national unity, DA leader John Steenhuisen has stated that his party will support President Cyril Ramaphosa for the presidency of the seventh administration.

During a break in the National Assembly’s sessions in Cape Town, Steenhuisen spoke on a live television broadcast.

“Following his election today, President Ramaphosa will then exercise his prerogative to appoint his new cabinet from among the members of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in consultation with the leaders of the constituent parties”.

Looking ahead, Steenhuisen said it was important for a collaborative approach to tackle South Africa’s pressing issues.

“Even as this marks a hopeful and historic moment for our country, it is important that we are honest with each other about the scale of the challenges that lie ahead. South Africa has the highest unemployment rate in the world. It has one of the highest crime rates in the world. Logistics and infrastructure are in an advanced state of decline, and corruption is endemic,” he said.

Steenhuisen called the formation of a GNU a landmark decision, pointing out that the DA joins the national government alongside the ANC in the three largest provinces: Western Cape, Gauteng, and KwaZulu-Natal.

“Today, the DA becomes a party of national government,” Steenhuisen beamed.

“What was once unthinkable when the DA’s predecessor secured only 1.7% of the vote in 1994 has now become a reality.”

Steenhuisen said the DA’s participation in the GNU is driven by a profound commitment to the South African people.