DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA - JANUARY 28: Mbali Shinga, KZN MEC for Social Development at Africas Biggest Property Conference at Chief Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on January 28, 2025 in Durban, South Africa. The Conference aims at tackling the issue of underutilized buildings in KwaZulu-Natal and repurpose these assets into vibrant spaces that will contribute to long-term urban renewal and economic growth. (Photo by Gallo Images/Darren Stewart)
The National Freedom Party (NFP) has suspended its KwaZulu-Natal provincial chairperson Mbali Shinga after she didn’t vote in favour of the motion of no confidence against Premier Thami Ntuli
Shinga is the NFP’s only representative in the KZN Legislature. She is also part of the provincial government of unity (GPU).
Motion of no confidence against KZN premier
The motion of no confidence on 15 December was brought by the MK party and supported by the EFF. It, however, failed after all GPU members voted against it.
The GPU comprises the DA, ANC, NFP and IFP.
During the debate, Shinga said the motion brought against Ntuli was based on political noise, not principle.
“True leadership is not proven in moments of excitement, but in restraint. The NFP rises today guided by principle, not political convenience,” said Shinga.
She added that “disagreement is not disloyalty”.
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Shinga handed suspension letter
The NFP disagrees. Shinga, who is the Social Development MEC in KZN, is now facing repercussions for siding with the GPU.
In her suspension letter, the NFP accused Shinga of “publicly defying the mandate of the party” and “acting contrary” to what she told the party she would do.
It added that she was negligent and disrespectful towards the party. It also accused her “of trying to humiliate the party in the process”.
The NFP, which is led by Ivan Barnes, said Shinga will be suspended for three months while a disciplinary inquiry against her proceeds.
“The NEC decided to suspend your membership pending the disciplinary inquiry as it would be detrimental to the interest of the party to allow you to continue representing the Party in the KZN legislature.”
Although she is suspended from NFP activities, Shinga will continue in her MPL and MEC roles.
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