As talks to form the seventh administration continue, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have extended an offer of cooperation to the African National Congress (ANC).
However, there is a big catch to this proposal: the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Freedom Front Plus (FF+) are not included.
letter from EFF Secretary-General Marshall Dlamini
EFF Secretary-General Marshall Dlamini wrote to ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula expressing the party’s desire to establish an alliance and pointing to parallels in the two parties’ election manifestos as a solid basis for co-governance.
EFF and ANC agreement intent
In contrast to the ANC’s current Statement of Intent with its Government of National Unity (GNU) allies, the EFF’s letter proposes the creation of a new agreement or Statement of Intent between the EFF and ANC. The concepts of equality and restitution would be prioritized in this proposed agreement.
In addition, Dlamini’s letter states that the EFF is willing to work with the executive branch as long as the DA and FF+ are not included in any coalition.
The EFF also emphasized how critical it is that its members be represented in legislative, deputy, and ministerial capacities in every sphere of the national government.
The EFF insists on consulting with the EFF leadership over these appointments, while acknowledging the President and Premiers’ right to decide on the executive makeup.
This letter appears at a pivotal point in South Africa’s political history, amid continuing negotiations and President Cyril Ramaphosa’s expected unveiling of the new executive.