The Democratic Alliance (DA) has officially withdrawn from the National Dialogue, a platform established to encourage cooperation between parties in the Government of National Unity (GNU).
DA lambasts Ramaphosa and withdraws from the National Dialogue
This decision follows the dismissal of DA Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield and ongoing complaints about corruption within the African National Congress (ANC).
DA leader John Steenhuisen announced the move during a press briefing that was so prominent, it caused President Cyril Ramaphosa to cancel a scheduled trip to Spain.
According to Steenhuisen, the withdrawal was prompted by the president’s failure to take action against ANC members accused of corruption and misconduct.
The National Dialogue was intended as a space where parties in the GNU could resolve disputes, share ideas, and jointly plan the way forward. It was seen as a response to the ANC losing its outright majority in the 2024 general elections.
Instead of ruling alone, the ANC had to form a coalition government, working with other parties like the DA.
Steenhuisen criticised Ramaphosa’s handling of the GNU, saying the president acted unilaterally on key decisions.
“President Ramaphosa violated the Statement of Intent signed by all members of the GNU,” Steenhuisen said.
He accused Ramaphosa of dismissing Whitfield over a technicality, while allowing ANC ministers accused of corruption to remain in office.
One of the most serious complaints from the DA is that the ANC continues to protect ministers such as Thembi Simelane, linked to the VBS banking scandal, and Nobuhle Nkabane, who allegedly misled Parliament.
Steenhuisen said the DA will now vote against any departmental budgets involving these ministers.
The DA leader also criticised the cost of the National Dialogue, calling it a “waste of R740 million” and an “electioneering ploy” meant to distract from the ANC’s failures. He said the DA will mobilise civil society to demand the Dialogue be stopped until action is taken against corruption-accused ministers.
What’s actually at play?
The DA’s withdrawal puts pressure on the already fragile GNU. Formed after the 2024 election, the GNU brought together multiple parties to govern collaboratively.
However, internal disagreements, especially between the ANC and DA, have become more visible.
Steenhuisen’s statement suggested that the DA may consider introducing a Motion of No Confidence against President Ramaphosa. While this is not happening immediately, the party has left the door open if there is no change in how the ANC handles corruption within its ranks.
EFF leader Julius Malema responded to the DA’s actions, urging the party to “respect the president and government protocol.”
This hints at the tension between opposition parties on how best to respond to Ramaphosa’s leadership style.
Steenhuisen also reminded the public that Ramaphosa’s executive power — often referred to as “presidential prerogative” — is only possible because of the support of coalition partners like the DA.
Without that support, the ANC would not have been able to govern.
By withdrawing from the Dialogue and threatening to oppose specific budget votes, the DA is applying pressure while stopping short of collapsing the entire GNU.
These moves could either force the ANC to make changes or lead to further breakdown in coalition cooperation.
For now, the GNU continues, but its stability is in question as the DA signals readiness to escalate its opposition if demands for accountability are not met.