South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a firm response to the Democratic Alliance (DA), stating he will “not yield to threats and ultimatums” amid escalating tensions within the Government of National Unity (GNU). His remarks follow the controversial dismissal of Deputy Trade Minister Andrew Whitfield—a DA member—over an unauthorized overseas trip. Whitfield was removed from his post after traveling to the United States in February without the president’s express approval, in violation of established protocols for members of the executive. The trip took place during a delicate diplomatic period when South Africa’s relations with Washington were strained.
In a strongly worded statement on Friday, Ramaphosa defended his decision as constitutionally grounded, citing past precedents, including Nelson Mandela’s dismissal of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela in 1995 under similar circumstances. The president confirmed that he had notified DA leader John Steenhuisen in advance of the removal and invited the party to nominate a replacement.
The DA, which is the second-largest party in the GNU, reacted angrily—accusing Ramaphosa of double standards. The party issued an ultimatum demanding the dismissal of other ministers who have allegedly committed similar infractions or threatened to reconsider its role in the coalition. “All bets are off,” the DA warned in a statement, adding that the consequences would rest squarely with the ANC if no action is taken by Saturday afternoon.
Speaking to SABC, Whitfield admitted his US trip lacked presidential approval, stating, “I took silence as consent—perhaps an error in judgment.” However, he also suggested deeper political motives behind his dismissal, calling it “premature and unnecessary.” The fallout has intensified an already fragile alliance within the GNU, formed after the 2024 elections yielded no outright majority. The coalition of 10 parties, led by Ramaphosa’s ANC, has been plagued by internal disagreements, most notably the DA’s refusal to support a crucial national budget vote earlier this year. That move drew sharp rebuke from the ANC, which accused the DA of betraying coalition unity.
As tensions mount, the fate of South Africa’s first multi-party unity government hangs in the balance, with the DA now openly weighing an exit.
