Democratic Alliance calls for unity in KwaZulu-Natal's Government of Provincial Unity

In a bid to foster a good working relationship and unity among the partners in the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), an important bilateral meeting is planned for the coming weeks.

The call for collaboration comes from the Democratic Alliance's (DA) Provincial Chairperson, Dean Macpherson, who urged all political parties involved in the GPU to unite for the greater good of KwaZulu-Natal.

This announcement follows a meeting held in Durban this past Saturday between the DA and the National Freedom Party (NFP).

During this meeting, Macpherson expressed optimism regarding the discussions, stating, “Our view remains that the GPU, with the full participation of the NFP, is the best vehicle to deliver stability, economic growth, and jobs to the people of KwaZulu-Natal.”

Macpherson, portraying his party as a responsible stakeholder in the GPU, confirmed plans for a multiparty meeting designed to address key issues and resolve lingering conflicts among the IFP, ANC, and NFP.

The urgency for these discussions stems partly from the NFP’s decision in January 2026 to withdraw from the GPU, a move that sparked concerns over potential instability in the provincial legislature.

The NFP's exit, prompted by a perceived lack of fulfilled promises and feelings of marginalisation by larger coalition partners, positioned them to request their provincial legislature representative, Mbali Shinga, to resign as the MEC for Social Development.

This critical withdrawal could lead to a 40-40 seat deadlock, raising concerns about governance in the province.

Following last Saturday’s meeting, Macpherson highlighted the cordial and informative nature of the discussions, noting that they provided valuable insights into the NFP's current frustrations within the GPU.

The meeting, attended by senior members from both parties and lasting over two hours, marked a step towards addressing the underlying issues that have plagued the coalition.

The NFP's response to the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to constructive dialogue, welcoming discussions with all political formations, including the ANC and MKP.

They highlighted that these talks reflect a broader mandate aimed at championing renewal, discipline, and accountable governance in KwaZulu-Natal.

“These engagements are not about transactional commitments, but about building a foundation for a reimagined provincial government that serves the people with dignity and transparency,” reiterated the NFP in a statement.

While the recent discussions laid no immediate governmental commitments, they represent an ongoing journey towards revitalising governance in KwaZulu-Natal.

The NFP also appreciated its members and supportive citizens, acknowledging their role in the pursuit of integrity, unity, and service within democracy.

Prior to the meeting with the DA, the NFP also engaged in discussions with the ANC and MKP, with speculation surrounding opportunities for the NFP’s president, Ivan Barnes, to assume a political office.

Barnes has publicly denied any allegations concerning these discussions, stressing the need for transparency in the political process.