Steenhuisen Says DA Will Continue To Challenge NHI, BELA Bill In GNU

John Steenhuisen, the leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), has reiterated the party’s commitment to challenging specific national policies and legislation, despite being part of the newly formed government of national unity.

This announcement comes in the wake of the African National Congress (ANC) failing to secure an outright majority in the recent general elections.

Steenhuisen emphasized the DA’s opposition to certain policies such as the National Health Insurance Act and the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Mbalula Says Zuma Single-handedly Defeated ANC As A Party

He stated, “We will continue to use our newfound powers to influence these, but we will not back down from holding those accountable for these particular laws.

This is a collaboration, not a co-option.” The DA leader made it clear that the party remains steadfast in its core values and will persist in serving South Africans with integrity and accountability.

The DA leader, who has recently been appointed as the Agriculture Minister, also outlined the party’s expectations for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address at the opening of Parliament.

Steenhuisen expressed hope that the president would reflect the voices within the national unity government and commit to a necessary policy shift, especially following the successful cabinet lekgotla held over the weekend.

John Steenhuisen concluded by reaffirming the DA’s independence within the government of national unity. He stated, “As the DA remains an independent party within the government of national unity, we remain committed to our core values and principles.

“We will continue to serve South Africans with integrity, accountability, and relentless pursuit of good government.” This declaration underscores the DA’s resolve to maintain its principles while collaborating within the broader framework of national governance.