The IFP, which is one of the ten signatories of the government of national unity (GNU), has criticised the war of words that has erupted between the ANC and the DA over cabinet positions, saying negotiations cannot go on indefinitely.
IFP leader Velenkosini Hlabisa said the party was concerned about the delay in announcing the new reconfigured executive which was expected to include individuals from all GNU partners.
President Cyril Ramaphosa took his oath of office last week but is yet to announce his new cabinet as ongoing discussions, particularly with the DA, have stalled.
The stalemate has also delayed the announcement of the executive in Gauteng where premier Panyaza Lesufi was elected earlier in June with the help of minority parties including the DA, IFP and MK.
“We cannot remain in a holding pattern when there is so much to be done ... the IFP is thus calling for the ANC and the DA to conclude the outstanding issues between them without delay,” Hlabisa said during a press conference on Friday.
“The engagements should reach finality and all stakeholders involved [should acknowledge] that the country cant be kept [in limbo] for much longer."
Ramaphosa and DA leader John Steenhuisen were scheduled to meet on Friday afternoon to find a way to break the stalemate after the DA threatened to walk out of the GNU after Ramaphosa altered the terms of the agreement and withdrew an earlier offer to give it the key trade & industry portfolio.
However, an emergency meeting of the DA’s federal executive on Thursday evening resolved to continue to hold talks with the ANC in order to ensure that its members are appointed as ministers in Ramaphosa’s new cabinet.
Tension between the DA and Ramaphosa emerged earlier this week after letters exchanged between Steenhuisen and Ramaphosa were leaked.
Ramaphosa lashed out at the DA, saying that he believed the party had jeopardised the foundation of setting up the GNU, and accused the DA of constantly shifting the “goalposts” during negotiations.
According to a letter seen by Business Day, the ANC has proposed to give the DA six cabinet minister positions and seven deputy minister roles.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.