A Divided House: The ANC’s Grand Coalition and South Africa’s Future

South Africa’s political landscape is once again under the microscope as tensions brew within the African National Congress (ANC). Former minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi has added fuel to the fire, unveiling private conversations with the late Tito Mboweni that paint a grim picture of the party’s current state. The revelations include scathing critiques of the ANC’s coalition with the Democratic Alliance (DA), referred to as a Government of National Unity (GNU).

A “Front” for the DA?

In texts shared with the Sunday Times, Mboweni is quoted as saying, “The DA is the ruling party, and Cupcake is a front. Live with it, ANC members.” The late finance minister’s cryptic message refers to President Cyril Ramaphosa, nicknamed “Cupcake” in controversial leaked emails from 2017. According to Ramatlhodi, these sentiments reveal deep dissatisfaction within ANC ranks about the coalition with their historical political rivals.

Ramatlhodi and other prominent leaders, including former president Thabo Mbeki, have expressed concerns over the ANC’s trajectory. The coalition, they argue, undermines the sacrifices made during South Africa’s struggle for liberation. Ramatlhodi warns that this partnership “hands power back to those who oppressed black people,” foretelling a bleak future for the ANC.

A Growing Chorus of Dissent

Criticism of the GNU isn’t confined to Ramatlhodi and Mboweni. Voices from the South African Communist Party (SACP), including Solly Mapaila and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, have echoed similar concerns. The SACP, which holds several cabinet positions, has even threatened to contest the 2026 elections independently—a move that could further fracture the ANC’s support base.

Meanwhile, Jacob Zuma’s MK Party is gaining traction, recruiting high-profile political leaders dissatisfied with the ANC’s direction. The ANC, once a symbol of unity and hope, seems increasingly divided as its internal and external challenges mount.

A House Divided

The ANC’s internal struggles raise broader questions about its ability to govern effectively. South Africans are grappling with unresolved socio-economic issues—ranging from service delivery failures to unemployment—yet political infighting continues to dominate headlines.

For many citizens, the ANC’s coalition with the DA feels like a betrayal of the ideals of 1994. It represents not just a political compromise but a departure from the ANC’s historical identity. “If we are ruled by leaders with personal agendas,” one might wonder, “where does that leave the people?”

What Lies Ahead?

South Africa’s political future hangs in the balance. The ANC’s coalition strategy may secure short-term stability, but at what cost? Will the party weather this storm, or are we witnessing the beginning of the end for one of Africa’s most iconic liberation movements?

As the ANC faces internal and external pressure, the country is left waiting—hoping—for leaders who prioritize governance over grudges, service delivery over self-interest. Until then, the voices of dissent will only grow louder, and South Africans will continue to demand answers.

Conclusion

South Africa deserves leadership that looks forward, not backward—a government that delivers for its people rather than squabbling over power. Whether the ANC can rise to this challenge remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the stakes have never been higher.

What are your thoughts? Is the GNU a necessary compromise or a betrayal of South Africa’s democratic ideals? Share your views below.