By Thabo Mosia
The African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal has dismissed rumours of a coalition with Jacob Zuma’s Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) while criticising its existing Provincial Government of Unity (GPU) partners, the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), for their “selfish” agendas. ANC provincial chairperson Siboniso Duma did not hold back, accusing the DA of opposing the vote of no confidence against former KwaDukuza mayor Lindi Nhaca out of self-interest. The ANC leadership, speaking at a Durban media briefing, assured supporters that despite challenges, it remains committed to the GPU for stability in KwaZulu-Natal.
ANC and DA Rift in KwaDukuza Vote of No Confidence
In September, the ANC took a strong stance by suspending KwaDukuza mayor Lindi Nhaca. Despite this, when the motion of no confidence against Nhaca was tabled last week, the DA opposed it, a move the ANC labelled as “self-serving.” The ANC views the DA’s resistance as putting political agendas over the public interest in KwaZulu-Natal. ANC provincial chairperson Siboniso Duma openly criticised the DA’s actions as “selfish,” emphasising that while the two parties cooperate at a provincial level, their differences often arise when it comes to prioritising the welfare of citizens.
Duma stated, “Whilst we understand that we are cooperating with the DA at a provincial level, we believe that opposing the vote of no confidence in the mayor was not in the interest of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.” This sentiment reflects ongoing tensions within the GPU as partners navigate the challenging balance between collaboration and political competition.
Dismissing Coalition Rumours with the MK Party
Addressing speculation that the ANC might form a coalition with the MK Party, Duma categorically denied any such intention. The rumours emerged after recent comments suggesting the ANC was seeking new alliances in response to the strained relationships within the GPU. However, Duma used the briefing to clarify that the ANC’s current partnership structure would remain intact, with the DA and IFP as coalition partners. He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to stability, dismissing the idea of the ANC forming an independent coalition with the MK Party.
The ANC’s refutation of these rumours comes amid broader discussions within the party on strategic alliances and how best to serve the interests of the people of KwaZulu-Natal. Duma’s statements were intended to reassure both the ANC’s members and the public of the party’s dedication to the GPU, despite its differences with the DA and IFP.
ANC’s Perspective on the DA’s “Selfish” Approach
The ANC has been increasingly vocal about its concerns regarding the DA’s “selfish” approach to coalition governance. According to Duma, the DA frequently prioritises its political image over the GPU’s collective goals, which the ANC sees as detrimental to effective governance. “It is what they usually do,” Duma remarked, adding that the DA’s posture often appears more focused on advancing its own agenda rather than the interests of the province.
The ANC still characterises the DA as a “centre-right party” with the potential to contribute to the province’s progress, yet remains critical of what it sees as the DA’s tendency to defend “white interests.” Deputy provincial chairperson Nomagugu Simelane-Zulu echoed this, stating that the DA does not represent the interests of black citizens in KwaZulu-Natal.
Accusations Against the IFP and Thulasizwe Buthelezi
While the ANC’s criticism of the DA centres around alleged self-interest, its issues with the IFP are more pointedly personal, specifically concerning Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. Duma accused Buthelezi of “divisive” behaviour, citing instances where he allegedly misused his position to dissolve traditional councils and terminate public works employees.
ANC leaders warned that if the IFP fails to take disciplinary action against Buthelezi, the ANC would be forced to respond. According to Simelane-Zulu, the MEC’s conduct has led to a strained working relationship within the GPU, with accusations that he uses his role to “settle scores” against ANC-run municipalities.
The Political Reality of the GPU and ANC’s Vision
Despite these internal conflicts, the ANC has reaffirmed its commitment to the GPU, framing the alliance as a “tactical” method necessary for advancing the province’s stability. Duma pointed out that, although the ANC has had to make strategic compromises in the GPU, these alliances do not compromise its historical mission of uplifting communities and achieving the goals set out in the Freedom Charter.
Duma explained, “The ANC’s relationship with the DA and IFP is imposed by conditions, not by ideological alignment.” This careful framing highlights the ANC’s intent to preserve its mission while navigating a challenging coalition.
Internal Tensions Over ANC Leadership Decisions
The motion of no confidence against Nhaca has sparked internal ANC discussions and led to disciplinary action within the party’s ranks. Secretary-general Fikile Mbalula previously summoned provincial leaders to a national meeting to address the matter, a reflection of how contentious the decision was within the ANC itself. While the ANC maintains that its actions align with its values, the party’s internal disagreements show the difficulty it faces in balancing discipline with local autonomy.
In October, Bheki Mtolo and Duma were both summoned to Luthuli House after initiating disciplinary measures against Nhaca in the General Gizenga Mpanza region. Despite the ANC’s efforts to maintain internal cohesion, the situation highlights the challenges of managing unity within a party that operates within a coalition framework.
The ANC’s Stance on Unity and Commitment to Stability
The ANC leadership reiterated its commitment to maintaining the GPU and fostering political stability in KwaZulu-Natal. Simelane-Zulu noted that while the ANC has had to confront both the DA and IFP for what it sees as counterproductive behaviour, the party believes that these tensions can be managed.
Simelane-Zulu also stated that the ANC remains focused on its goals, particularly in addressing the province’s economic and social challenges. The ANC sees itself as the only party with the historical mandate to represent the interests of the majority, and its commitment to the GPU, despite ideological differences, reflects its resolve to fulfil that mandate.
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