The EFF has met with the ANC leadership, who proposed a Government of National Unity that includes all political parties that contested the elections. However, the EFF argued that this does not make sense, as there must be sound ideological principles and foundational values that define the government.
According to The EFF Deputy President, Floyd Shivambu, there are some common features that could define the government, such as the emphasis on redressing historical imbalances caused by colonialism and apartheid, confronting white supremacy and domination over the economy, and protecting workers’ rights.
The EFF has reservations about involving political parties that do not share these ideals and are more aligned with protecting white interests and the status quo.
The EFF, currently in a coalition government with the ANC in some municipalities, such as Johannesburg, where the EFF is responsible for public safety and healthcare, says it is willing to engage with the ANC on the principles of redress, prioritizing the people’s interests, and a transformative agenda, but the ANC has been arrogant and unwilling to discuss these issues.
Speaking about the inclusion of the Opposition, Democratic Alliance in the Government of National Unity, the EFF said it is not willing to entertain any coalition that involves the Democratic Alliance. The party sees the DA as an instrument to protect white interests and privilege.
According to Shivambu, the EFF is prepared to field its own candidates for the positions of speaker, deputy speaker, and president if there is no agreement between the parties before the first sitting of Parliament on Friday.
Shivambu clarified that its previous support for a government of national unity was in the context of the immediate crisis facing the country, such as the challenges with Eskom and the economy, and not as a permanent solution. The party remains committed to its principles and is willing to engage with the ANC, but only if the ANC is willing to discuss the interests of the people and not just engage in elite pacts.