Dear Chief Justice Zondo,

South Africa finds itself at a crucial turning point in history where we are compelled to confront challenges that compel us all to stand and craft a solution that will improve the material conditions of the people for the better. It is against this background that the leaders of various political parties should convene a meeting that will address the challenges of the envisaged government and give fulfilment to the constitutional inheritance as enshrined in the founding pillars of the Constitution and by extension, the Constitutional Court. 

Given the new terrain where no one party has an outright mandate to form a government, it is imperative that a critical meeting be convened promptly. This meeting must serve as a platform for fostering a transparent collaborative agenda for South Africa. With the landscape of governance evolving, characterised by shifting alliances and the absence of a clear majority, it is essential to establish a framework for inclusive decision-making. 

We, the representatives of various political parties represented in the Parliament of South Africa, write to you as the custodian of the Constitution and the vision espoused by the Constitutional Court with a sense of urgency and deep concern regarding recent developments in our nation's political landscape. 

As you are no doubt aware, the President of the African National Congress (ANC) recently announced plans to form a Government of National Unity. This announcement has significant implications for the future governance and direction of our country. Given the importance of this matter, we believe it is imperative that all leaders of political parties represented in Parliament come together to discuss the agenda of government, particularly as it pertains to the envisaged 7th administration. Based on the outcomes of the election, the process cannot be left to only one party to lead and convene, but has to rather be a collection of many stakeholders in collaboration. 

In light of the gravity of the situation and the need for urgent and inclusive dialogue, we respectfully request your facilitation in convening a meeting between all leaders of political parties represented in Parliament. We believe that your esteemed office, as the custodian of the Constitution and the guardian of our democracy, is best placed to oversee such a crucial gathering.

The purpose of this meeting will be to engage in constructive dialogue and deliberation on the proposed Government of National Unity and the agenda of government for the next five years. We are committed to working together in the best interests of all South Africans and believe that a collaborative approach is essential in addressing the many challenges facing our nation.

We kindly request that you prioritise this matter and expedite the scheduling of the meeting at your earliest convenience. We are prepared to make ourselves available at a time and place of your choosing.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We look forward to your favourable response and to the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue under your esteemed guidance.

Yours sincerely

 

Issued by President of the United Democratic Movement Bantu Holomisa