GNU partners sing 7th administration praises at Sona debate

DA leader and minister of agricultureJohn Steenhuisenopened his debate by saying he had a sense of “measured optimism and a renewed determination” after the delivery of the Sona last Thursday. “The president’s speech reflected a country that has begun to turn the corner after years of stagnation, crisis, and lost hope,” he said. He attributed the government’s successes, including the slight economic growth, lowered inflation, budget surplus, stable national debt, and improved credit ratings, among others, to the DA’s decision to join the GNU.

“Under the Government of National Unity, we have achieved real, tangible progress. And let me be clear: much of this progress bears the unmistakable imprint of the DA’s principled participation, our relentless push for reform, and our unapologetic focus on what actually works for the people of this country,” said Steenhuisen. Despite turning the corner, said Steenhuisen, there was still a lot more work to be done, including lifting millions of South Africans out of poverty and the continued efforts to create jobs.

“But let me be very clear, commitment does not mean blind loyalty. We will continue to fight for faster, bolder change — holding the executive accountable, pushing our reforms through cabinet and parliament, and ensuring every cent of public money works for the people, not politicians,” he said. “Honourable members, the stars are aligning with political stability under the GNU, improving fundamentals, with global tailwinds, and a population hungry for progress.

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But alignment alone is not enough—we must act with speed and resolve.” Rise Mzansi leader Songezo Zibi lauded Ramaphosa for confronting corruption, especially in the police, by establishing the Madlanga Commission to look into the slew of allegations of wrongdoing made by KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. “In this respect, I want to thank you for responding to what is in the hearts of all South Africans: that the senior ranks of law enforcement must be re-vetted. South Africans are not only angry, but afraid to report crime, because they do not trust those who have taken an oath to protect them. The process of vetting must be adequately resourced and urgently done,” he said.

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