KZN coalition confusion: NFP divided over no-confidence motion against Premier
KwaZulu-Natal’s governing coalition faces mounting uncertainty as conflicting messages from the National Freedom Party (NFP) raise questions about the stability of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU).
Newsday reported how NFP president Ivan Barnes expressed regret over the functioning of the GPU and hinted at the party’s potential support for a motion of no confidence against Premier Thami Ntuli.
“Regrettably, what we have witnessed since the formation of the GPU stands in sharp contrast to its ideals,” Barnes said.
He cited concerns over governance, the absence of meaningful performance reviews, and alleged financial mismanagement.
His comments fueled speculation that the NFP, which holds a single seat in the 80-member legislature, might vote against Ntuli in the uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MKP)-led motion of no confidence.
“The MK Party, as the party that received the largest number of votes in the province, must be given an opportunity to provide leadership,” he said.
Yet, the NFP caucus issued a statement clarifying its position late Monday afternoon, creating a striking contrast with Barnes’ earlier remarks.
The caucus affirmed that its MPL, Cynthia Mbali Shinga, MEC for Social Development, remains a full and active member of the NFP in the legislature, representing the party “with integrity, dedication, and the mandate entrusted to her.”
It praised her performance in GPU, saying that she has been advancing social justice, supporting vulnerable communities, and strengthening intergovernmental collaboration.
“The NFP Caucus is pleased with her deployment as part of the GPU,” the statement said.
“Her performance continues to reflect the values and principles of the organisation — discipline, accountability, and service to the people.”
It went on to reaffirm that the GPU “remains intact and continues to function smoothly and effectively in fulfilling its legislative and governance responsibilities,” emphasising the party’s commitment to constructive participation, credible oversight, and responsible governance.
The NFP Youth League issued issued a statement on 27 October, calling its president’s remarks “unconstitutional, undemocrtatic and politically reckless.”
They said that such statements from the leader did not follow any structures, nor did he consult with the KZN caucus.
“The attempt to speak on behalf of KZN without engaging its legitimate provincial leadership is an act of political opportunism that seeks to sow instability in the province,” added the NFPYL.
Fragility of the coalition
The conflicting messages expose the fragility of KwaZulu-Natal’s coalition politics.
The GPU, a multiparty alliance comprising the IFP, ANC, DA, and NFP, holds a razor-thin majority of 41 out of 80 seats.
Opposition parties, including the MKP (MKP) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), collectively hold 39 seats. In this context, even a single defection could dramatically shift the provincial political balance.
The tension is compounded by the MKP’s recent tabling of a motion of no confidence against Premier Ntuli.
MKP leader in the legislature, Inkosi Phathisizwe Chiliza, argued that the Premier’s office suffers from “disarray and absence of decisive leadership,” pointing to weak administrative control over provincial departments.
If the NFP were to side with the MKP, a tied vote at 40-40 could occur, technically insufficient to remove the Premier, leaving the GPU in place but politically weakened.
Meanwhile, Premier Ntuli has dismissed criticism of his leadership as unfounded. Speaking as IFP chair, he described the provincial government as “stable” and “aggressive in fighting corruption and crime.”
He highlighted infrastructure investment and job creation, noting that the province expects more than $90 billion in new investment and 90,000 new job opportunities this year.
The fractious relations within the GPU extend beyond the NFP.
The ANC Youth League in KwaZulu-Natal has suggested that the party exit the coalition, accusing the IFP of “betraying” the alliance.
ANC KZN leaders have also expressed concerns about unilateral decisions by the IFP in the Umkhanyakude District Municipality, which they described as a “power grab” undermining the GPU.
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KZN GLU is still doing well. Creating instability in its government for now would be the last thing the citizens will want. MKP should wait for the elections to gain enough numbers as it’s a biggest party in the province.