IFP warns of ‘two centres of power’ as Dube-Ncube gets nod for KZN premier post
The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has welcomed the African National Congress's (ANC) nomination of KZN Finance MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube as its candidate for provincial premier.
However, party leader Velinkosini Hlabisa warns Dube-Ncube might not have complete authority over her cabinet.
Hlabisa says it’s clear there are two centres of power, with newly elected ANC provincial chairperson Siboniso Duma declining nomination to the position following Sihle Zikalala's resignation last week.
"The designated premier was clearly rejected by the conference on two accounts, that in itself is a clear message that she will not be able to command any authority and people will just do as they like. The chairperson will be controlling her from the back."
He says while Dube-Ncube's government is already compromised, their job as the opposition remains the same.
"The IFP is not worried about that because this is the demise of the ANC. The ANC is on its journey out of power in KZN. All we will do [is] hold Dube-Ncube accountable for all outstanding things which Zikalala left unresolved.”
Meanwhile, speaking at a media briefing at the ANC's Durban offices on Monday, Dube-Ncube said she would focus on the socio-economic issues plaguing the province.
She thanked the ANC for the nomination after what she described as an “intense” interview.
"I am indeed going to be working with the ANC leadership, as well as all my colleagues in government to deal with the crippling issues that we are dealing with in the province...issues of unemployment."
It's widely expected that a special sitting of the house will be held this week after Zikalala formerly tenders his resignation to the Speaker of the KZN provincial legislature, Nontembeko Boyce. This would allow the process of officially electing Zikalala's successor.
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