The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has strongly criticized the Government of National Unity (GNU), labeling it a “so-called” alliance destined to fail.
Speaking to the press in Johannesburg on Monday, MKP Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu, who read the party’s official statement, claimed that the GNU was collapsing under its internal contradictions and had worsened the economic struggles of ordinary South Africans.
Shivambu remarked:
“The irreconcilable differences shown by members of the GNU during the State of the Nation Address [Sona] debate are clear evidence that unity does not exist within this government. Ministers and deputy ministers turned on each other, speaking as though the government wasn’t a cohesive entity, but rather a collection of competing factions.”
The party’s sharp criticism followed a meeting of MKP’s national leadership on 19 February, where discussions focused on the party’s internal leadership structures and its position on national governance.
The meeting also resulted in disciplinary actions, expelling two senior members from the National Council of Provinces and the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, though their identities were not disclosed.
One of the most controversial topics raised by Shivambu was the proposed VAT increase, which the MKP argues will further burden South Africa’s poor. The government is reportedly considering a 2% hike, pushing VAT to 17%. Shivambu firmly rejected the proposal, stating:
“We, as the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, reject and are completely opposed to this senseless increase.”
He emphasized that the MKP would not support a budget that disproportionately affects the poor.
In light of the delay of Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s budget speech last week, President Ramaphosa convened a special cabinet meeting on Monday afternoon. Members of the GNU will collaborate on solutions to address the R60bn revenue shortfall.
Shivambu, speaking during a media briefing, accused Ramaphosa’s government of deepening poverty, adding that the MKP believed the government should pursue the build-operate-transfer model and partner with China, Russia, and India to develop infrastructure.
