Leaders of the Government of National Unity (GNU) say the coalition is now “more cohesive, determined and focused”, agreeing to further engagement on South Africa’s international relations to develop a common understanding of the national interest.

The leaders of the 10 political parties that constitute the GNU on Monday concluded what they say was a “highly productive” two-day retreat in Johannesburg.

The leaders said they recognised difficulties at times in the functioning of the GNU, most notably around the 2025 Budget process.

“…however, it has drawn important lessons from these experiences and will ensure more effective consultation in developing fiscal priorities and frameworks,” they said.

They assured that the GNU was focused on urgency and action and remained true to its fundamental purpose: to serve the interests and meet the needs of all South Africans.

The meeting was attended by African National Congress (ANC) president Cyril Ramaphosa and ANC deputy president Paul Mashatile; Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen; Inkatha Freedom Party leader Velenkosini Hlabisa; Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie; Freedom Front Plus leader Corné Mulder; United Democratic Movement leader Bantu Holomisa; Rise Mzansi leader Songezo Zibi; Al Jama-Ah leader Ganief Hendricks; Pan Africanist Congress of Azania leader Mzwanele Nyhontso; and GOOD Party secretary-general Brett Herron.

The meeting agreed that the forum of party leaders would meet regularly to provide strategic political direction to the work of the GNU.

All parties reaffirmed their full commitment to the GNU as a reflection of voters' wishes.

Over the 16 months since the parties signed the Statement of Intent, the leaders said the GNU had provided “stability and leadership” to the country.

“It remains focused on resolving the concerns of the South African people: unemployment, poverty, the cost of living, crime, corruption and delivery of services,” they stated.

While there had been progress over the last 16 months, they agreed that work needed to be accelerated.

The leaders promised they would ensure “greater urgency and action” in the implementation of government programmes, the streamlining of processes and structures and the further professionalisation and depoliticisation of the public service.

One of the focuses of the GNU is the development of a food security plan, and a comprehensive strategy for skills development.

Further, they promised that law enforcement and security services would be mobilised and that key stakeholders would intensify the fight against the rise in gangsterism and organised crime.

The leaders also noted the appointment of “capable, ethical leadership” in the criminal justice system, while also equipping national and provincial government to intervene more effectively where municipalities fail to fulfil their mandates.

A comprehensive response to illegal immigration would also be undertaken, including strengthening border management and expanding economic opportunities for South Africans.

They further promised to improve oversight and coordination of State-owned enterprises and setting minimum standards for board appointments.