IFP reaffirms support for Premier Thami Ntuli amid political turmoil in KwaZulu-Natal

In a strong show of solidarity, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has publicly reaffirmed its support for Premier Thami Ntuli and the IFP-led Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) in KwaZulu-Natal. 

National spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa addressed concerns over stability in the province, stating that the GPU continues to govern effectively by prioritising the collective interests of all its citizens.

“The provincial government is delivering on its mandate of ensuring service delivery, good governance, and social cohesion,” Hlengwa said at a recent media briefing.

His comments come against a backdrop of upheaval following the National Freedom Party's (NFP) recent decision to withdraw from the GPU, having accused the IFP of a “Big Brother” mentality in their coalition interactions.

NFP President Ivan Barnes expressed disappointment at what he perceived to be a lack of respect and collaboration from the IFP after they assumed power. He emphasised that their departure was rooted not in a quest for positions, but in the principles of respect and cooperation that he believed was overlooked.

In response to the swirling political uncertainty, Hlengwa rejected suggestions made in a Sunday Times report that MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi was due to be removed as the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA).

He labelled such claims as misleading.

 “No such reshuffle agreement was made,” he insisted, cautioning against the spread of misinformation. While the IFP sought to assure the public of its commitment to stable governance, the NFP's exit raised questions about the future of the GPU.

The formation of a new alliance by the MKP, which allegedly seeks to partner with the EFF and the NFP to challenge Ntuli's leadership, could shift the balance of power in the 80-member provincial legislature.

The MKP's letter to the Speaker of the Legislature indicated a growing confidence in their ability to garner sufficient support to challenge Ntuli’s administration, potentially leading to a motion of no confidence that could spur a rerun of provincial elections. 

However, this coalition will notably exclude the IFP, which currently holds a significant 15 seats in the legislature. If successful, the proposed alliance would result in a pivotal 40-40 split in legislative power that could usher in a new era of political dynamics in KwaZulu-Natal.

In light of the developments, Hlengwa urged all political entities to prioritise the welfare of the populace over partisan interests, thereby reinforcing the message that the GPU was a vital model of cooperation and stability that must be safeguarded.

As the situation evolved, the NFP's Secretary General, Sunset Xaba, was scheduled to meet with the MKP on Thursday to discuss the motion of no confidence against the KZN Premier. 

Despite repeated attempts, ANC spokesperson Fanle Sibisi did not respond to inquiries regarding the unfolding political crisis.

DAILY NEWS