Ahead of the first meeting of the Government of National Unity (GNU) Clearing House Mechanism, Deputy President Paul Mashatile expressed confidence that GNU political parties will “find each other” and that their collective commitment to serve all South Africans will lead to greater accountability and foster trust between the electorate and the parties serving in the GNU.

In marking the first 100 days of the GNU, Mashatile in his capacity as leader of government business in Parliament, convened the inaugural meeting, where parties will discuss and agree on the terms of reference for the Clearing House Mechanism.

The meeting will be held virtually, later today.

The Clearing House Mechanism was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa last month, as a way for the 10-member GNU to resolve policy disagreements.

"However, acknowledging the diversity of parties in the GNU, it is anticipated that from time to time, there will be disagreements in some policy areas, and in the implementation of the Minimum Programme of Action, that will need to be resolved. To this effect, President Ramaphosa established the GNU Clearing House Mechanism, under the leadership of Deputy President Mashatile, to deal with these policy agreements and other disputes," said the Presidency in a statement.

Mashatile stressed that the Clearing House Mechanism would not override Cabinet decisions, as Cabinet remains the final decision-making body in government, however, he said the House will ensure that all GNU signatories develop a common understanding of critical policy matters.

In addition to the establishment of the Clearing House Mechanism, it was resolved that a technical committee be established, which Mashatile said would serve as a processing channel for matters of divergence within the GNU.

In this regard, this mechanism will establish the Political Leaders’ Forum of parties who signed the Statement of Intent.