The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) stated on Friday that it is not against a government of national unity (GNU), saying it remains committed to giving the matter priority attention.

African National Congress (ANC) President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Thursday that the party will invite other political parties to form a GNU, this after losing its majority for the first time in the democratic era.

IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said that over the past few days the IFP had engaged with the ANC, Democratic Alliance (DA), and National Freedom Party (NFP) on a way forward for the country, following the 2024 national and provincial elections.

The ANC has also since highlighted that its discussions with the IFP, DA, NFP and the Patriotic Alliance were constructive.

Following the ANC’s announcement of its intention to from a GNU, the IFP said its Coalitions Task Team would now engage the ANC and other parties further and report back to the IFP National Executive Committee on Monday.

“In principle, the IFP is not averse to a GNU. However, the devil is in the details, which will become clearer in the coming days thus enabling the IFP to make a well-considered decision,” explained Hlengwa.

He noted that the IFP would broaden the scope of its engagement with other parties, particularly as parties grappled with the possibility, viability and dynamics of a GNU.

Hlengwa said the party’s coalition discussions continue to be guided by its policies and 13-point manifesto plan, the Constitution, and the rule of law.