DA KZN: Premier Senzo Mchunu a disappointing choice

20 May 2014

THE Democratic Alliance is disappointed by today's announcement that Senzo Mchunu will return as Premier of the province.

Premier Mchunu does not have the endorsement of the DA for a number of reasons. 

We have consistently made the point that KwaZulu-Natal needs a full-time Premier.  Premier Mchunu has shown that he does not have the ability to divide his time between ANC party activities and his role as the political head of KZN.  His attendance at his own portfolio committee meetings has been poor as has his general accessibility.

This is precisely the same concern that the DA voiced regarding former Premier, Zweli Mkhize, who eventually resigned to take up a position as ANC Treasurer-General after trying to combine the two duties.

Of further concern to the DA is Premier Mchunu's failure to take a firm stand against political violence in the province leading up to the national elections.  In fact, we believe that some of his comments were inflammatory, particularly against the DA in KwaZulu-Natal.  This shows a remarkable lack of leadership.

Tomorrow's swearing in of Senzo Mchunu as Premier of KwaZulu-Natal must mark the beginning of a new approach - one which sees positive and active engagement with all political parties in our province. 

We expect him to prioritise his duty to the citizens of KwaZulu-Natal, to lead without fear or favour and to begin to do justice to the great honour that has been bestowed upon him.

Statement issued by Sizwe Mchunu, MPP, DA KZN leader, May 20 2014

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