By Michael Andisile Mayalo
In recent discussions about national unity, the Government of National Unity (GNU) concept has gained traction as a potential solution to political fragmentation and discord.
The appeal of a GNU lies in its promise to bring together diverse political factions to form a stable, inclusive administration. However, the effectiveness and integrity of such a government are called into question when it includes parties with a history of opposing democratic values.
The idea behind a GNU is to forge unity by bringing together parties with differing perspectives to work towards common goals. Theoretically, this approach should help bridge political divides and promote inclusivity. However, when a coalition includes parties that have historically resisted democratic progress, it risks undermining the very values it aims to uphold. This is particularly concerning when the coalition includes parties that have historically been seen as pro-apartheid or have perpetuated policies that contradict the principles of equality and justice.
The DA, for instance, has been criticised for its past stances and policies that seem to align more with the legacy of apartheid than with democratic principles. While the party has evolved, its historical record raises legitimate concerns about its commitment to the ideals of a democratic society. Including such a party in a GNU could be interpreted as a tacit acceptance of views that counter the essence of democratic advancement.
The danger of including undemocratic elements in a GNU lies in the potential erosion of democratic gains - democracy is built on the foundations of equality, justice and human rights.
When a government coalition incorporates parties with a questionable commitment to these values, it risks diluting the democratic principles that have been hard-won over decades. This compromise could lead to a situation where the government’s actions and policies reflect a regression rather than a progression of democratic values.
Moreover, including historically problematic parties in a GNU could send a troubling message to the public. It may appear that democratic values are negotiable and that political expediency takes precedence over core principles. This could undermine public trust in the democratic process and institutions, leading to further fragmentation and disillusionment among the electorate.
For a GNU to be truly effective and credible, it must be composed of parties genuinely committed to democratic ideals. Unity should not be achieved at the expense of these principles. The coalition must reflect a shared commitment to advancing democracy rather than compromising it for the sake of political expediency. The focus should be on fostering inclusivity and collaboration without sacrificing the core values that define a democratic society.
The concept of a Government of National Unity has its merits. Its success hinges on the inclusivity and democratic integrity of its components. Incorporating parties with a history of opposing democratic values, such as the DA, risks reversing the gains of democracy rather than consolidating them. True unity requires a coalition that aligns with democratic principles and reinforces our progress towards a just and equitable society.
As we navigate the complexities of political cooperation, let us ensure that our pursuit of unity does not come at the expense of the democratic values that define our nation.
*Mayalo is a young social entrepreneur
** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media