The ANC Chairperson in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Siboniso Duma, has accused the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) of acting selfishly by opposing the motion of no confidence against Lindi Nhaca, the recently dismissed mayor of KwaDukuza.
Duma was addressing a media briefing in uMhlanga on Monday, where the provincial government was reflecting on 100 days of the government of provincial unity (GPU), including achievements by the ANC.
“It’s a selfish need; it’s what they usually do—always advancing their own stance. The DA’s position was self-serving,” he said.
Nhaca was suspended by the African National Congress (ANC) in September. The DA voted against the resolution to remove Nhaca from office during last week's council meeting.
According to Duma, the ANC will continue to take a firm stance against the DA's "tendencies" and any actions that may compromise the ANC's goals. He also emphasised that the ANC will keep assessing its relationship with the DA, describing it as tactical rather than ideological.
Despite his criticisms, Duma expressed confidence that the GPU would remain stable and bring sustained stability to the province. He explained that the ANC's alliance with the DA was a calculated response to the current political landscape.
He stated that this cooperation has allowed the ANC to stay committed to its historical goal of liberating the people. Duma noted that the ANC still views the DA as a centre-right party that could help further the principles of the Freedom Charter. However, he indicated that future collaboration with the DA and IFP would depend on a renewed focus on advancing the ANC’s own mandate.
Also at the briefing, ANC Deputy Provincial Chair Nomagugu Simelane-Zulu supported Duma’s position, asserting that the DA’s interests primarily serve the white minority. She added that, except for MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the ANC has a solid working relationship with both the National Freedom Party (NFP) and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).
Simelane-Zulu accused Buthelezi of “settling scores” by targeting ANC-run municipalities in the province and stated that the ANC is engaging with IFP leadership to address his actions.
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