ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula isn’t mincing his words when it comes to the ongoing coalition talks with the Democratic Alliance. In a sharp statement, he declared, “If the DA wants South Africa to function, they’ll come to the party.”
Mbalula’s comments come amid tense negotiations to repair a fractured Government of National Unity (GNU), which has been rattled by disagreements over the national budget. Over the weekend, leaders from the ANC and DA met to try and break the deadlock, with both sides describing the discussions as “constructive.”
- Recommended: Malema Explosive Speech in Sophiatown Could Redefine South Africa’s Land Battle—Here’s What to Expect
At the center of the weekend’s talks was a high-level meeting between ANC officials and a DA delegation led by federal council chair Helen Zille. The DA, which recently clashed with the ANC over the fiscal framework, reaffirmed its commitment to the GNU, saying it remains focused on finding solutions in South Africa’s best interest.
But Mbalula made it clear that the ANC, as the country’s ruling party, bears the heavier burden. “We’ve got the bigger responsibility than the DA and everyone else to run this country, to lead as the leading party. People expect answers from us,” he told eNCA.
WATCH
“Do you want this country to be reduced to rubble because of reckless decisions? Should the ANC behave like a small puppy in the GNU?” ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula. pic.twitter.com/hiiSLv5abF
— eNCA (@eNCA) April 13, 2025
He criticized what he called political point-scoring from the opposition, adding that the ANC can’t afford to act like “a small puppy” in a coalition meant to stabilize the nation.
“Should we behave like a small puppy in the GNU? No. We carry a much bigger responsibility. We want this country to function,” he said. “If the DA is serious about South Africa working, they’ll show up and do what needs to be done.”
Mbalula emphasized that national interest must always come first. “This isn’t about party politics anymore. It’s about defending South Africa especially for those of us who only have one passport.”
Earlier this month, Parliament narrowly passed the fiscal framework, with 194 MPs in favor and 182 against. The DA, however, has challenged the budget in court, adding legal pressure to the already strained political environment.
Despite mounting criticism from within its own ranks to sever ties with the DA, the ANC is staying the course for now. Mbalula’s message was firm: South Africa must succeed, and every party in the GNU needs to act like it.
