- ANC accuses DA and IFP of undermining its ministers in the KZN coalition.
- ANC Youth League says DA should exit the coalition if unhappy.
- DA defends its stance, citing accountability and governance.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), the coalition partners of the African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal, have been accused of meddling and undermining the ANC.
At a media briefing in Durban, ANC provincial convener Mike Mabuyakhulu accused the DA’s Finance MEC Francois Rodgers and IFP’s Co-operative Governance MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi of overstepping their roles.
According to Mabuyakhulu, the ANC has had enough of its provincial ministers being harassed and under continual surveillance.
“We value our partners, but reciprocity is necessary. We cannot allow coalition partners with only 11% to behave as if they won 51%,” he stated.
Rodgers Threatens Oversight on ANC-Led Departments
Rodgers recently threatened to place the ANC-led Department of Transport, headed by Siboniso Duma, under administration, citing corruption concerns. He also ordered the restart of a R300 million school transport tender, which benefits more than 157,000 learners.
In addition, Rodgers placed the Department of Education, led by ANC MEC Sipho Hlomuka, under strict oversight. Mabuyakhulu hit back, saying no MEC should use their position for political battles.
Buthelezi Accused of Targeting ANC Municipalities
The ANC also accused IFP MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi of unfairly placing ANC-run municipalities under administration. Mabuyakhulu said coalition partners should focus on stability and service delivery rather than political point-scoring.
Youth League Calls Out the DA
In a forceful response, the ANC Youth League in KZN called on the DA to leave the coalition if it was dissatisfied.
Meanwhile, the DA defended Rodgers, with provincial deputy leader Sithembiso Ngema saying the party will not back down from fighting financial mismanagement.
“We urge all coalition partners to work together to rebuild KZN’s economy,” Ngema added.
Transport Department Hits Back
The Department of Transport, under MEC Siboniso Duma, slammed Rodgers’ department for issuing statements about restarting the tender process, accusing the DA of leaking confidential information and misleading the public.