Progressive Caucus plans to recruit more parties to form an effective opposition in Parliament

JOHANNESBURG - The Progressive Caucus says it’s planning on recruiting more parties in order to form an effective opposition block in Parliament.

The caucus has been decimated with the exit of three parties who have joined the African National Congress (ANC)’s Government of National Unity (GNU).
 
However, it’s set to get a boost on Tuesday with uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), which is due to have 58 of its representatives finally sworn in as members of Parliament.

ALSO READ:

• The Progressive Caucus in Parliament says it doesn't feel betrayed

• Progressive Caucus not planning to disband after 3 parties join GNU

With the MK Party declaring it will be joining the Progressive Caucus, it creates a clear division of two factions in Parliament. 

The caucus has four parties represented in the National Assembly, compared to 10 under the GNU.
 
This leaves just four parties that are not part of either grouping.

African Transformation Movement (ATM) president and Progressive Caucus member, Vuyo Zungula said it was in the interest of democracy that there was a formidable opposition in Parliament. 

"As the ANC proudly boasts that their coalition comprises of 70% of seats in Parliament, which will require that opposition parties in Parliament find a way to collaborate in order to stop any abuse of power and mischief from the ANC."

Zungula said the caucus won’t be against working with the GNU in matters in which they share a common interest.