In a significant political move, Zwakele Mncwango has been unveiled as ActionSA’s premier candidate for the upcoming elections in KwaZulu-Natal. The announcement, made by ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba, signals a strategic push by the party to secure key government positions in the province.
Mncwango, who previously served as the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) premier candidate in 2019, resigned from the DA in October 2022, joining ActionSA. He now holds the position of the party’s provincial chairperson in KwaZulu-Natal. Speaking at a media conference on Monday, Mncwango expressed his commitment to the party’s cause, stating that he consciously chose to leave his position as a Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL) to focus on building ActionSA in the province.
The primary objective set for Mncwango by Mashaba is to work towards the removal of the ANC from the province. Mashaba emphasized the importance of forming a coalition, with the ANC explicitly ruled out as a potential partner. Mncwango’s task includes mobilizing support from other parties and spearheading efforts to change the name of the eThekwini municipality to honor the late IFP founding leader, Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
At the media conference, Mncwango asserted his goal of not merely being in opposition but striving to be in government. He acknowledged the necessity of forming coalitions but firmly rejected any collaboration with the ANC, labeling it a “criminal syndicate.” Mncwango stated that ActionSA’s entry into government was a matter of “when,” not “if,” and outlined plans to move the KwaZulu-Natal legislature to Ulundi.
Education emerged as a central theme in Mncwango’s policy priorities, with a focus on addressing disparities between rural and urban school education quality. He pledged to eliminate politics in schools, appoint educators based on skills rather than political affiliations, and improve working conditions for teachers.
Mncwango also addressed healthcare, advocating for extended clinic hours, the employment of more doctors and nurses, and top-class healthcare services. The fight against corruption featured prominently, with Mncwango stressing the importance of electing individuals with ethics, honesty, and integrity, supported by a robust vetting system. Economic justice, township economic growth, and addressing the issue of illegal immigrants were highlighted as key elements of ActionSA’s agenda.
Mashaba expressed pride in Mncwango’s dedication and predicted that he would “shake up” KwaZulu-Natal. The party leader commended Mncwango’s hard work and contagious enthusiasm, recognizing his role in exposing irregularities in the provincial government’s allocation of funds for the South African Music Awards.
As the political landscape in KwaZulu-Natal evolves, ActionSA, under Mncwango’s leadership, aims to bring about transformative change and challenge the established political order in the province.
