DA may invoke GNU coalition terms in City of Joburg

The Democratic Alliance (DA) may invoke the terms of the GNU coalition in the City of Joburg, potentially sparking a power struggle with the ANC. The DA is currently part of the ANC-led government of national unity, alongside eight other parties. The DA could demand that the GNU coalition terms also apply to Johannesburg, but the Joburg ANC leadership might resist this demand. This follows Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's refusal to include the DA in his provincial coalition administration in 2024.

Analysts suggest that a possible two-way coalition might emerge, led by either the ANC or the DA. ActionSA party leader Helen Zille, the DA's mayoral candidate in Joburg, is willing to explore coalition options. However, she insists that any coalition must maintain the DA's effective governance and leadership in the metro. The DA would prefer to operate in opposition rather than compromise its ability to govern effectively.

In contrast, ANC insiders in the greater Joburg region are reluctant to align with the DA, viewing it as an "unfriendly" party to the poor. ANC insider sources have stated that the ANC intends to lead in forming a coalition for the city while firmly excluding the DA from its considerations. ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba also ruled out working with the DA, stating that Zille "must go back to Cape Town."

Mashaba praised the ANC's collaboration with ActionSA and the EFF in Tshwane, citing tangible improvements in service delivery. He criticized the DA's performance in Joburg, particularly the water crisis in Hammanskraal, which he attributed to the DA's focus on affluent suburbs.

DA Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga said the DA's approach is to first discuss a service delivery framework, rather than forming a coalition and appointing leaders.