As South Africa prepares for President Cyril Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, February 6, political parties are urging the government to tackle pressing issues such as poverty, unemployment, and economic growth.
The upcoming SONA is seen as an opportunity for Ramaphosa to provide concrete plans for the future, demonstrating whether the Government of National Unity (GNU) can transform from a coalition of rivals into a force for real change.
The GOOD Party, trade union Cosatu, and Build One South Africa Party (Bosa) each have distinct yet urgent demands as the country grapples with high unemployment rates, a strained economy, and persistent social inequalities.
The GOOD Party calls on Ramaphosa to demonstrate how the GNU plans to implement the priorities outlined in the Statement of Intent signed by all 10 government parties.
This includes commitments to rapid, inclusive economic growth, social justice, and strengthening the country's institutions.
GOOD’s secretary-general, Brett Herron, stresses that the government must address poverty, particularly by implementing a Basic Income Grant, to alleviate unemployment and improve living conditions for millions of South Africans.
"If the GNU can’t demonstrate a prioritisation of the social justice provisions in the Constitution, it will fuel the arguments of anti-Constitutionalists that the democracy’s founding values need radical change," Herron said.
Similarly, Cosatu expects bold and decisive interventions to address South Africa's crises, particularly in the context of the working class.
According to Matthew Parks, Cosatu’s Parliamentary Coordinator, the government must prioritise essential sectors like Eskom, Transnet, and public services while halting austerity measures that harm the economy.
"Government needs to report back on how far it has moved since the last SONA, including both the successes and their responses to setbacks," Parks said.
Cosatu advocates for expanding public employment programs, transforming the SRD Grant into a Basic Income Grant, and ensuring the transformation of public services to reflect the needs of the working class.
Bosa Party, while acknowledging the historic progress made by South Africa, critiques the current state of governance under the GNU.
They argue that internal disputes and a lack of coherent policy direction have hindered the government's ability to create meaningful change.
Bosa's approach to economic recovery emphasises a growth target of 5% per annum, alongside investments in infrastructure, education, and safety.
"Economic recovery must take centre stage in 2025, led by infrastructure development," said Bosa leader Mmusi Maimane. They also highlight the need for reforms in local government, safety, and the civil service to build a capable state that prioritises citizens over political survival.
IOL Politics