“Just Along for the Ride”: US Sees No Real Change in South Africa’s GNU

The formation of South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) may have been pitched as a new chapter for the country’s politics, but the United States isn’t buying it—at least not yet.

That’s according to Joel Pollak, a South African-born American and senior editor-at-large at Breitbart News, who believes the GNU is nothing more than a rebranded ANC-led government. Speaking to BusinessTech, Pollak argued that despite the inclusion of opposition parties like the DA, real control remains firmly in the hands of the ANC.

Power Without Real Influence?

Pollak was blunt: “The other parties are not really part of a coalition government… they’re just along for the ride.”

His comments come after the ANC successfully pushed through controversial VAT increases and “stealth” tax hikes in the 2025 budget without support from its largest GNU partner, the DA. For critics, this was yet another sign that the ANC retains strategic control—especially over foreign affairs and economic ministries.

No Boost in Washington

One of the early hopes around the GNU was that it might soften strained ties between South Africa and the United States. But Pollak says that’s simply not the case.

“The ANC kept the foreign ministry, minerals and energy, and the major industries. So, for those watching from the outside, it looks like the ANC still runs the show,” he said.

Relations between Washington and Pretoria have hit several speed bumps recently, including:

• South Africa’s legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice

• Strong ties with countries like Iran, China, and Russia

• Conflicting views on domestic policies such as the Expropriation Bill

Pollak pointed out that under Donald Trump’s previous administration, the US temporarily halted aid over concerns about South Africa’s policy direction—and that scrutiny has continued under the new GNU.

GNU’s Credibility in Question

Despite a brief bump in investor confidence after the GNU’s formation, analysts like Michael Atkins have noted that the ANC gained the lion’s share of executive power—controlling over 70% of the National Executive with only 39% of the vote.

Pollak says the DA missed an opportunity during negotiations: “If you can’t control how your country is perceived internationally, then you’re not truly part of a coalition.”

He adds that while the GNU might offer a framework for policy reform, its current makeup does little to inspire confidence abroad.

Government Pushes Back

President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) have acknowledged US criticisms but say they are committed to diplomatic solutions.

Ramaphosa recently addressed the issue, stating: “We’ve expressed concern about the mischaracterisation of our laws and foreign policy. We’ll continue to engage to restore ties.”

Dirco Minister Ronald Lamola echoed that sentiment: “Consensus building and dialogue are key—even within a GNU made up of diverse political views.”

A Divided Coalition?

The DA, meanwhile, insists it is representing South Africa’s interests abroad. The party recently sent a delegation to the US to engage with leaders in Congress and the White House. But back home, questions are growing over its place in a government where it holds little sway on major decisions.

Pollak sums it up plainly: “The GNU has made absolutely no impact on how the US views South Africa. The ANC continues to behave as it always has.”

{Source BusinessTech}

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