In the wake of Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen's address concerning the current state of the Government of National Unity (GNU), the Cape Independence Advocacy Group (CIAG) underscores the urgent necessity for a bold reassessment of the Western Cape's future. Steenhuisen's revelations about the ANC's reluctance to honor coalition agreements and its continued push for policies that risk further destabilization of our country corroborate CIAG's long-standing concerns.
The ANC's adherence to the National Democratic Revolution (NDR), as candidly embraced by President Ramaphosa, glaringly contrasts with the ideals of cooperation and mutual respect that should anchor a coalition government. The recent unilateral signing of the BELA and Expropriation Bills without adequate consensus within the GNU starkly exemplifies this.
CIAG believes that these developments make the case for Cape Independence ever more pressing. Self-determination is an inalienable right recognized both under international law and our national constitution, not merely a privilege to be granted or withheld by the state. It is evident that the DA, despite its position within the GNU, has been unable to prevent the ANC's overreach or to protect the interests of the Western Cape people effectively.
As Steenhuisen advocates for a reset in relations within the GNU—an endeavor the CIAG views as unachievable without the repeal of the BELA and Expropriation Acts—we similarly call for a reset in how we envision the future of the Western Cape—one that prioritizes genuine autonomy and respects the will of its people.
In his recent address, Steenhuisen misinterpreted the election results, suggesting that voters desired collaboration among parties. In reality, the election highlighted a profound ideological divide across South Africa, where achieving consensus is not possible.
The people of the Western Cape have consistently expressed a desire for governance that diverges sharply from the national majority’s preferences. Given this context, self-determination and self-government emerge as the only viable solution. Consequently, a provincial referendum is imperative to determine the preferred path to autonomy for the people of the Western Cape.
For enquiries, please contact:
Dr. Joan Swart
CIAG spokesperson
Email: joan@capeindependence.org
