COSATU to meet with ANC, SACP in the coming days over calls for govt of national unity

JOHANNESBURG - Union federation COSATU says it will meet with the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP) in the coming days as political parties mull calls for a government of national unity.

This week, the ANC announced plans to cast its net wider in search of partners to form the seventh democratic administration.

The ANC's dismal showing at the polls has left the biggest party in Parliament without a majority for the first time since 1994.

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Since the ANC's announcement that it would seek counsel on the formation of a government of national unity, the party’s proposal has so far been met with mixed opinions.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) appear interested in joining the pact that would see the inclusion of smaller parties in government.

On their own, the ANC, DA and IFP would have enough numbers to elect a president and a Speaker when Parliament meets again for the first time since the 29 May polls.

But the proposal has gotten some pushback from the MK Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

Both parties are opposed to striking a deal with the DA.

In addition to the political parties, the ANC also has to consult the tripartite alliance partners – COSATU and the SACP.

The SACP has already taken a stand against the government of national unity if the DA is a party to it.

COSATU, on the other hand, said it wants to meet with the alliance first before taking sides.