In his February State of the Nation address, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed optimism about the collaborative efforts among various sectors of society during his tenure. He highlighted achievements like vaccine distribution during the Covid-19 pandemic, combating gender-based violence, addressing energy and logistics crises, fighting crime and corruption, and accelerating job creation.
Ramaphosa emphasised that this spirit of cooperation is critical to building a new South Africa. Reflecting this sentiment, senior government ministers and business leaders met recently to review progress on economic growth initiatives. The meeting marked the first since the installation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in June, with notable success reported in the energy sector.
However, this collaborative spirit was soon tested. On the eve of signing the Presidential Health Compact, intended to unite key sectors in improving health outcomes, the government inserted a controversial clause committing all signatories to its version of the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme. This last-minute addition caused an uproar among several key partners, leading to the postponement of the signing.
When the government eventually proceeded with the signing, critical stakeholders, including Business Unity SA, the SA Medical Association (Sama), and the SA Health Professionals Collaboration (SAHPC), refused to sign. These organisations objected to the government’s unilateral amendments, transforming the compact into an endorsement of the NHI Act.
Business Unity SA and health professionals accused the government of forcing them to support the NHI, a scheme they believe requires significant revisions. The move was widely criticised as deceitful and has cast a shadow over the health compact’s future and the NHI itself.
The fallout from this controversy underscores the challenges facing the ANC-led government, particularly its approach to power and negotiation. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi’s hardline stance, even at the cost of the GNU’s stability, highlights the growing tension.
As a result, the health compact, crucial for revitalising South Africa’s ailing healthcare system, faces delays. The real victims of this setback are the millions of South Africans who depend on the public health system and the broader goal of achieving universal health coverage.
If Ramaphosa is serious about the partnerships he claims will drive the nation forward, he must distance himself from these divisive tactics and foster genuine collaboration.