Advocate Lekhetho Rakuoane Calls for Government of National Unity to Stabilize South Africa

Advocate Lekhetho Rakuoane, leader of the Popular Front for Democracy (PFD), advocates for a Government of National Unity (GNU) as the solution for South Africa. He highlights the divisive stances of the African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), noting their unwillingness to collaborate. This division, he warns, could lead to investors withdrawing their funds.

Rakuoane argues that a GNU, involving all major parties in governance, is essential. He emphasizes that the ANC needs to address the challenges faced by black South Africans while also welcoming investors associated with white-dominated parties. This approach is particularly important, he notes, as there are fears among the white community that another black-led government might replicate Zimbabwe’s contentious land policies.

The general elections on May 29, 2024, resulted in significant changes. The ANC’s support dropped considerably, leading to the loss of its long-held parliamentary majority. Despite remaining the largest party, the ANC’s decline marked a significant shift. The centrist Democratic Alliance saw a slight increase, securing its position as the second-largest party. A new left-wing populist party, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), led by former president Jacob Zuma, emerged in third place just six months after its founding.