John Steenhuisen wants the party to stay in the GNU,
Image: Ayanda Ndamane / Independent Newspapers
The DA is having difficulty defining itself within the GNU. The problem is that it wants to lead and oppose at the same time. It is also suffering from a superiority complex. The sooner it deals with the latter, the better.
Since the DA has been part of the GNU, it has banged heads with the ANC. It wants to control and lead the unity government.
And the ANC is having none of that. Hence, the constant fights. The other problem is the DA leadership: i.e. John Steenhuisen and Helen Zille. Steenhuisen wants the party to stay in the GNU, while Zille wants it out. As a result, the two don't see eye to eye when it comes to the matter.
Additionally, Steenhuisen wants to be seen as in control of the DA. Is he? The impression created is that he is not.
On the other hand, Zille is using her influence to push the political organisation in the direction she wants. The other thing is that the ANC is outmanoeuvring the DA when it comes to policy issues. The former has managed to push the policies that the DA is fiercely opposed to. For example, the Bela Act and Expropriation of Land Act.
This is partly in the heart of squabbles between the two parties.
The budget saga is another classic example. The DA did not support the budget because of VAT increment and lack of procedure on the matter, it said
However, the ANC has managed to pass the budget without its support. Checkmate!
Lastly, Steenhuisen's party has grown comfortable being in government. Therefore, it does not want to lose its ministerial positions because of the political mileage these positions give the party. Consequently, it finds itself in a compromised position. It must decide whether it wants to stay or leave the GNU.
Thabile Mange I Joburg