The Government of National Unity (GNU) and the new cabinet must not squander the goodwill and confidence now that we are finally at the starting line of the new administration. However, its success will depend on the deals done over the last month with the agreements setting the foundation.
The firmer the foundation is, with all sides understanding their roles and responsibilities, the more stable and effective we can expect this coalition government to be. For that reason, I hope our patience will be rewarded, Busisiwe Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA), says in her weekly newsletter.
It was a long time in the making, but last nights (Sunday) announcement of a final agreement for a Government of National Unity (GNU) and the cabinet sets us on a new course.
Mavuso says the new cabinet must work together for the common good of all South Africans. While last nights announcement will take some time to digest, I hope we will come to see the individuals appointed as people of integrity and professionalism. The president last night highlighted the professionalisation of the public service as an agreed priority of the new GNU. That needs to start at the top, among the political leaders who oversee it.
Rapid inclusive and sustainable economic growthShe also agrees with President Cyril Ramaphosa who said at the announcement that all parties agreed to prioritise the creation of rapid inclusive and sustainable economic growth. That is critical to our future. South Africa stands out in the world for having experienced almost no growth in over a decade with the average citizen getting poorer in that time.
