Political parties agree to dialogue on coalition governments convened by Deputy President Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Shipokosa Mashatile, in his capacity as the Leader of Government Business in the National Assembly, today met with various political parties represented in Parliament. The purpose of the meeting was to initiate discussions regarding the upcoming National Dialogue on Coalition Governments.

This dialogue, scheduled to take place in July, is a direct response to questions raised in Parliament, regarding the need to establish stability within coalition governments in the absence of a legislative framework.

In his response to the parliamentary question, Deputy President Mashatile committed to convening a national dialogue aimed at developing a framework for coalition governments. This framework will serve as a foundation for crafting appropriate legislation at a later stage. Despite the diverse views held by the political parties, there was unanimous agreement on the necessity for a national framework that ensures coalition governments remain responsive to the needs of the people of South Africa.

At present, more than 60 municipalities are governed by coalitions. Some of these coalition governments have encountered difficulties in upholding governance principles and providing essential services to the people. The forthcoming national dialogue aims to bring together all stakeholders under a cohesive approach, ensuring that governments can continue to serve communities effectively.

Deputy President Mashatile thanked all the parties for the positive outcome of the meeting, wherein the parties agreed to fully participate at the national dialogue.

"We appreciate the positive manner in which the political parties have engaged with us as Government so that we can reach an agreement and commit ourselves to serving South Africans collectively. When we enter into co-governing arrangements, we must always remember that we are working toward a common goal: the realisation of a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, united, and prosperous nation. We can be prosperous if we work together," he said.

The political parties further agreed that the general principles previously articulated by the Deputy President, such as putting people first, a commitment to ending poverty, ethical governance, building an inclusive economy, and fostering social cohesion, should form the basis of a framework on coalitions.

The National Dialogue on Coalitions will take place on 27 July 2023, and will include all spheres of government and parties represented in Parliament. This inclusive forum will facilitate meaningful conversations and contribute to the development of a robust framework that ensures effective coalition governance in South Africa.

For more information on the National Dialogue on Coalition Governments kindly contact Matshepo Seedat on 082 679 9473 or Matshepo@Presidency.gov.za

Media enquiries: Vukani Mde on 081 307 9233

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria