South Africa’s political landscape has been shaken by an urgent demand from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), the country’s second-largest party, for the immediate sacking of a key minister. The call, made amid escalating internal party conflicts, threatens to destabilise the fragile coalition government and derail crucial climate and energy policies.
The EFF has not named the minister publicly, but sources indicate it is likely the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, whose pro-coal stance has long been a point of contention. The party accuses him of mismanagement and corruption, though the exact allegations remain unclear. This political manoeuvring comes at a critical juncture for South Africa, which is grappling with an energy crisis and international pressure to transition away from fossil fuels.
The infighting underscores a deeper schism within the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and its coalition partners. The ANC, already weakened by declining support, now faces a direct challenge from the EFF, which holds 44 seats in parliament. If the demand is not met, the EFF has threatened to withdraw its support for key legislation, including the country’s energy transition plan.
From a scientific perspective, the potential disruption to energy policy is alarming. South Africa’s energy grid is heavily reliant on coal, accounting for over 80% of electricity generation. This dependence not only contributes significantly to global CO2 emissions but also hampers the country’s ability to meet its commitments under the Paris Agreement. The recent IPCC report highlighted Africa as a climate vulnerability hotspot, with South Africa facing increased drought, heatwaves, and water scarcity.
The lobbying for Mantashe’s removal could accelerate or hinder the transition. Proponents argue that a new minister might prioritise renewable energy investments, which have languished due to bureaucratic delays and corruption. The country’s Integrated Resource Plan 2019 targets 20 GW of renewable capacity by 2030, but progress has been slow. Conversely, a protracted political crisis could stall any forward momentum, leaving the energy sector in limbo.
The EFF’s demand also reflects a broader political realignment. The party, known for its radical economic policies, has been gaining traction among younger voters disillusioned with the ANC. Its insistence on ministerial accountability may be a strategic move to position itself as a viable alternative for governance, especially as the country approaches the 2024 general election.
The situation remains fluid. The ANC has not yet responded officially, but party insiders suggest a bargaining process is underway. The outcome will have ripple effects across economic sectors, particularly mining and energy. Investors are already nervous: the Johannesburg Stock Exchange saw slight dips in energy stocks following the news.
As a climate correspondent, I must stress the urgency of stabilising South Africa’s political environment to address its energy and climate challenges. The country cannot afford prolonged infighting. Each week of delay in implementing renewable projects means more coal burned, more emissions, and more vulnerability to climate impacts. The world is watching, and the clock is ticking.
