The African National Congress (ANC) has said it will protect the unity of the government, ensuring its collaborative efforts within the Government of National Unity (GNU) yield positive outcomes for all South Africans.

Later this week the seventh democratic administration will hold its first Cabinet Lekgotla under the GNU, from July 13 to 14.

After losing its outright majority in the 2024 national and provincial elections, the ANC was forced to approach opposition parties to form a coalition government.

The ANC has announced that ten of the 18 parties with seats in the National Assembly have signed the GNU Statement of Intent (SoL).

The Cabinet Lekgotla would develop the policy programme of government - as contained in the SoL - into a government action plan with targets and timelines, said the ANC.

The party explained that government was gearing up to serve the Republic, by providing policy certainty and a stable environment for national development, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to its manifesto priorities.

The ANC has also affirmed its commitment to transparent governance and collaborative leadership, assuring citizens it will ensure stability, and provide clear policy direction.

The party acknowledged that the establishment of the ANC-led GNU introduced a new and unfamiliar dynamic.

“The government has been successfully formed at the national level and in all nine provinces, marking a new chapter of unity and progress for our nation,” the ANC said.

“Together, we are dedicated to building State capacity, enhancing education and healthcare, and fostering social cohesion and democratic participation. The collective foreign policy supports human rights, constitutionalism, and peaceful conflict resolution,” the party added.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday the National Assembly will vote for the House Committee chairpersons, designate representatives of Parliament to the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum as well as designate Members of Parliament to serve on the Judicial Services Commission.

National Assembly Portfolio Committees will also meet to elect committee chairpersons and receive departmental briefings in preparation for the budget votes scheduled for this term.

“This process is crucial for the effectiveness and accountability of our government, as these committees play a vital role in overseeing various sectors of government operations and holding the executive accountable,” the party said.