Minting strategies for creating a nexus between the Pentecostal Theology of Unity and the Government of National Unity in South Africa

Abstract

Background: In South Africa, a second Government of National Unity (GNU) was formed in 2024 after the African National Congress lost its majority and could not form a government on its own. This study explores strategies for minting Pentecostal Theology of Unity (PTU) and structural interventions, designed to align this ethos with the political objectives of the GNU, thereby fostering a transformative nexus between faith-based solidarity and democratic governance.
Objectives: The study examines the strategies for establishing a connection between these two institutions and develops ways to enhance the GNU operations.
Methods: This study employs a qualitative content analysis approach through examining existing documents, literature, media reports, theological texts, government policies, GNU documents and academic literature.
Results: The study recommends dialogue and collaborations, joint community development projects, reconciliatory education, promoting diversity and inclusivity, and, lastly, Pentecostal advocacy and policy influence. The GNU benefits profoundly from a strategic nexus between PTU and social identity theories.
Conclusion: Reconciliation, communal harmony and transcendent unity help foster superior identities and reduce social fragmentation, creating a robust, multidimensional approach to addressing South Africa’s complex socio-political landscape.
Contribution: The study contributes by advocating for strategies that enhance social cohesion, participatory development, the elimination of historical inequalities and the encouragement of inclusion and affirmation of diverse identities.