Kundai Darlington Vambe, a columnist at the Southern African Times, has warned that this is the beginning of the end for the African National Congress if it doesn’t work together with the MK Party. Vambe’s statement underscores the critical issue facing the ANC amidst ongoing coalition talks and parliamentary votes in South Africa.
During an interview with ARISE NEWS on Friday, Vambe highlighted the uncertainty gripping the ANC, stating, “It has been an uncertain period since South African independence, and the ANC finds itself in a very difficult position.”
He pointed out the complex dynamics at play in coalition negotiations, particularly between the ANC and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).
On Thursday, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula acknowledged discussions but admitted, “there is no details as to what constitutes the government professional unity, the details are yet to be ironed out which leads to more uncertainty,” he stated.
The National Assembly session on Friday promises to be intense, with the ANC facing its first-ever loss of majority as South Africa’s leading political party. The voting process, which includes electing the speaker of parliament and the president, hinges on a secret ballot and requires a minimum presence of one-third of the members.
“At this stage, it appears likely that President Ramaphosa will emerge as the President of South Africa,” Vambe speculated, contingent on unfolding developments behind closed doors.
Reflecting on potential disruptions during the session, Vambe remarked, “Traditionally, the EFF has been known to trigger rowdy behavior, but last night, Julius Malema of the EFF almost assured the country of avoiding such conduct, which is commendable.”
However, Vambe expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of any coalition arrangement. “There will undoubtedly be significant push and pull between these parties,” he cautioned, citing underlying mistrust and differing ideologies.
“The president may not be entirely comfortable with the agreement, but he faces numerous challenges, including internal leadership scrutiny within the ANC,” Vambe added, alluding to recent controversies resurfacing under diminished party support.
Recalling past political maneuvers, Vambe noted, “Previously, issues like Pala Pala were managed due to ANC’s majority, but recent shifts mean they no longer hold that advantage.”
“The prospects for a sustainable coalition or government of national unity are bleak,” Vambe concluded, painting a picture for ANC’s future. “This could mark the beginning of the end for ANC if they fail to align with the MK.”
NNEOMA UDENSI
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