KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has called on political parties to safeguard newly elected councillors as coalition talks commence in the province. Ntuli made the appeal at the Durban ICC, where the Electoral Commission of South Africa announced the final 2026 Local Government Election results. With newly elected councillors set to take office and parties facing coalition negotiations in several hung municipalities, Ntuli emphasized that political differences must not escalate into violence.
Ntuli's warning comes amid a history of political violence in KwaZulu-Natal, where at least 10 people have been killed this year alone. He expressed his desire for no councillor to be killed or assassinated for any motive or reason. The premier stressed the importance of protecting democracy and leaders elected by the people. His remarks highlight the need for a safe and stable environment for coalition negotiations to take place.
The province's political landscape has undergone significant changes following the polls, with the MK Party emerging as the largest party in KwaZulu-Natal, followed by the IFP and the ANC. In eThekwini, the MK Party secured 38% of the vote, followed by the Democratic Alliance with 25% and the ANC with 16%. These results have set the stage for coalition negotiations in several municipalities, including eThekwini, Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa stated that the election results would be gazetted on Wednesday, after which attention would focus on constituting municipal councils within the prescribed 14-day period. Hlabisa's department will support municipalities, particularly those without outright majorities, in finding common ground and establishing stable coalitions.
Minister Hlabisa emphasized that his department would provide constant support to ensure that coalitions are sustainable, stable, and deliver services. The minister's comments come as police prepare to bring a suspect before the local magistrate's court in connection with the murder of Knysna Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa. The suspect, a 44-year-old man, was arrested in the Eastern Cape on Friday.
The suspect is facing one charge of murder and three counts of attempted murder in connection with the August shooting that killed Tsengwa and injured three others. National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed the arrest and upcoming court appearance. The incident highlights the need for increased security measures for public officials.
Ntuli's warning and the arrest of the suspect underscore the complexities and challenges facing KwaZulu-Natal as it navigates the post-election period. The premier's call for protection of councillors and the minister's commitment to supporting municipalities reflect efforts to ensure a stable and functional local government.
Key points
- KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli warns against political killings as coalition talks begin.
- The province faces a history of political violence, with at least 10 people killed this year.
- Coalition negotiations will take place in several municipalities, including eThekwini, Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni.
