DURBAN - THE Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu-Natal believes it has scored big following the announcement that uMngeni Municipality’s deputy mayor Nompumelelo Buthelezi has joined the opposition party on the eve of the local government elections.
She was unveiled by the DA on Sunday afternoon, a move which the opposition party hopes will swing the momentum in its favour on election day.
DA’s mayoral candidate for uMngeni Municipality, Chris Pappas, said they are determined to do well in the municipality that is made up of Howick and surrounding areas.
“The DA is determined to bring real change to the people of the uMngeni municipality. Corruption, poor service delivery and unemployment are destroying the lives and livelihoods of the residents of the KZN Midlands. The DA has a plan and a proven track record to turn things around and get things done,” said Pappas.
He added that Buthelezi’s decision to join the DA is an example that people have a choice to leave an abusive relationship with one political party and called on others to follow suit.
“On the 1st of November the DA is ready to take control of the uMngeni Municipality and bring real hope and real change,” Pappas stressed, urging locals to go in their numbers and vote for his party.
ANC Moses Mabhida Region convenor Thulani Xulu said the party was unfazed by the development as it would have minimal impact.
“In the ANC we believe in the freedom of choice and if she believes that joining the DA is the best option then so be it. That is the beauty of democracy,” said Xulu. He added they were not scared about losing support in the municipality following her departure.
THE MERCURY