Former International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor has praised the survival of the Government of National Unity (GNU), calling it a “sign of political maturity” rather than evidence of a failed state.
Speaking on the SABC’s Face the Nation this week, Pandor reflected on the coalition government’s resilience in a challenging political environment.
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“The fact that the GNU has survived thus far indicates a useful level of political maturity in South Africa,” she said.
“It is the first time we’ve had a national coalition of this kind, apart from, of course, at the inception of our democracy.”
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Pandor Urges Focus On Jobs And Growth
While acknowledging the coalition’s stability, Pandor stressed the urgent need to address sluggish economic growth and South Africa’s record-high unemployment rate.
“There’s still a sense of instability… One is not always clear: when we take this step, what is the actual goal we intend to achieve?” she cautioned.
She highlighted the economy’s recent 0.8% growth rate, which she said falls far short of what is needed to create jobs, especially for young people. Pandor also questioned the lack of visible strategic interventions to support high-potential industries such as agriculture and tourism.
“What form of support in logistics terms is being provided to the agricultural sector, which is showing that it is robust? How do we assist agriculture to retain jobs? And in the tourism sector, how do we grow it?” she asked.
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Naledi Pandor Rejects The Failed State Narrative
Pandor dismissed claims that South Africa is a failed state, arguing that despite inefficiencies, key institutions remain operational.
“We continue to have an economy that functions, a revenue service that collects revenue, a public service that functions—not satisfactorily, but it continues. Children go to school, salaries are paid, and we have a very active private sector,” she explained.
Her remarks come as tensions mount between the ANC and Democratic Alliance (DA) within the GNU, with disputes over policy direction, cabinet appointments, and the pace of reforms. Despite these disagreements, Pandor expressed cautious optimism.
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“I think South Africa is confronting complex problems… but leadership must now push harder and smarter. We need to intensify the effort to expand success where it exists,” she said.
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