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DA declares the ANC's demise in KwaZulu-Natal, citing spectacular failures
via The Citizen13 min read
Francois Rogers, the DA leader in KwaZulu-Natal and MEC of Finance, stated that the ANC in the province has "died" due to its spectacular failures across all spheres of government and municipalities. Speaking at the DA national congress in Johannesburg, Rogers emphasized that the era of one-party dominance is over, and voters are no longer giving political parties a blank cheque to govern. He highlighted that coalitions, when built on principle, delivery, and accountability, are the future of South African politics. Rogers noted that the DA has exposed corruption, inflated contracts, and empty bank accounts in KwaZulu-Natal municipalities, even while being part of a coalition with the ANC. He mentioned that the decision to place the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education under Section 18 of the PFMA, a Treasury intervention, nearly caused the collapse of the government of provincial unity. The ANC's mother body has been attempting to revive support in the province after a significant defeat in the 2024 provincial elections, leading to the appointment of a provincial task team to rebuild branches. There are reports that the ANC's National Working Committee will discuss the possible removal of Jeff Radebe as the convenor of this task team due to perceived failures.
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has launched an independent investigation into allegations that teaching posts within the department are being sold for money and sexual favors. The probe was initiated after a viral social media video surfaced, reportedly showing the wife of the department's head of communications, Muzi Mahlambi, accusing him of involvement in these activities. In the video, she claims female teachers either paid money or exchanged sexual favors to secure employment. Head of Department Nkosinathi Ngcobo ordered the independent investigation, emphasizing that the department views these allegations seriously as they impact public administration integrity and public trust. The department stated the investigation will be fair, credible, and impartial, considering all relevant evidence without fear or prejudice. They urged the public to provide any credible information to the investigating body or law enforcement authorities, committing to act decisively on the findings.
The MK party has defended its decision to appoint eThekwini's former mayor Zandile Gumede as the party's deputy convenor in KwaZulu-Natal, despite her ongoing trial for fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to a R320 million Durban Solid Waste tender. Gumede's appointment was announced at a press briefing in Durban. MK party secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo stated that the party is a political organization and not prosecutors, and therefore, criminal cases do not prevent a member from joining or taking a position. He added that questions about Gumede's legal issues are not relevant to her appointment. Political analyst Theo Neethling noted that Gumede's defection is significant because she remains on trial, and her charges did not hinder her acceptance by the MK party. Neethling suggests the party prioritizes electoral advantage and organizational strength over reputational risks, especially in securing metropolitan strongholds like eThekwini. This approach aligns with the party's narrative, which, given its leader Jacob Zuma's own legal challenges, often portrays criminal charges as politically motivated.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed South Africa鈥檚 condolences following the death of former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday, 12 July 2026, at 74 years old. Ramaphosa described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader whose "legacy of peace, prosperity and global influence continues to inspire the world." He extended sympathies to Qatar's Royal Family, government, and people, highlighting South Africa's close friendship with Qatar. Ramaphosa noted that Qatar, under Sheikh Hamad's leadership, became a model of peace, development, prosperity, and global influence. Sheikh Hamad's 18-year rule saw Qatar transform from an economy reliant on oil to the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, with one of the highest per capita incomes, achieved through strategic investment in productive assets, financial institutions, infrastructure, and human capital.