South African opposition parties unleashed sharp criticisms during the parliamentary debate following President Cyril Ramaphosa's 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA). Leaders targeted the government's handling of the economy, corruption, and crime, revealing deep divisions in the Government of National Unity (GNU). The session underscored ongoing tensions over public-private partnerships and accountability, with some viewing the address as recycled promises lacking real action.

Opposition Attacks on Economic Policies

EFF leader Julius Malema accused President Ramaphosa of auctioning South Africa's sovereignty through public-private partnerships in ports, rail, energy, and potentially water. He argued these moves handed strategic assets to private and foreign interests, undermining national control. Malema further claimed the government failed to create jobs, develop infrastructure, or grow the economy effectively.

In contrast, DA leader and Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen credited the GNU's economic recovery to his party's influence. He highlighted four consecutive quarters of GDP growth, improved credit ratings, lower interest rates, and the lowest inflation in 20 years as results of DA-driven competence and fiscal discipline. Steenhuisen expressed measured optimism, reframing progress as coalition achievements rather than ANC successes.

ActionSA's Athol Trollip criticized the government's response to the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak as systematic neglect. He faulted delays in vaccination and over-reliance on movement controls, which harmed public health and jobs. Trollip also attacked the illegal cigarette and alcohol trade, saying it destroys employment while politically connected figures evade accountability.

Criticisms on Corruption and Accountability

Malema zeroed in on Ramaphosa's unresolved corruption issues, including the Phala Phala scandal and sealed CR12 documents. He questioned the president's transparency, noting promises of openness that remain unfulfilled. Trollip echoed these concerns, pointing out that corrupt ANC ministers face no consequences despite implications.

Broader opposition reactions described the SONA as filled with intentions but short on delivery, with recycled promises on unemployment, crime, and corruption. For instance, MK Party MP Des van Rooyen labeled it a "State of Intention Address," criticizing its reliance on plans, committees, and summits without concrete results. Malema also blamed Ramaphosa for failing to combat crime, calling the army deployment a last resort amid persistent violence.

Government Responses and Reforms

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni outlined the Water Action Plan to address crises, reform municipalities, and unlock investments. She emphasized criminal accountability for officials' failures. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia confirmed SANDF deployments to Western Cape, Gauteng, and Eastern Cape within ten days to tackle gang violence and illegal mining.

Steenhuisen welcomed the FMD national disaster declaration and announced procurement of millions of vaccine doses, including 1 million from BioGenesis Bago arriving soon. The plan aims for 80% national herd vaccination by December, involving private veterinarians. Cachalia stressed multi-disciplinary task teams targeting criminal networks' leadership and finances, alongside police reforms like vetting and lifestyle audits.

GNU partners rallied behind Ramaphosa, while opposition stressed the need for real implementation over promises. The State Security Agency will submit a redeployment plan for implicated police by February's end.