Nelspruit - Former United Democratic Movement provincial leader Prince James Mahlangu has been promised a position in Mpumalanga Premier Ndaweni Mahlangu's office in an apparent reward for defecting to the African National Congress.
Prince James confirmed at the weekend that his appointment was discussed at a provincial executive council meeting, and said he expected to be formally appointed as provincial director of traditional affairs by June 1.
The position will give the prince, who, like the premier, is a member of the Ndebele royal family, financial control of traditional affairs in Mpumalanga.
"I have been assured I will get it. All I am doing now is waiting for the formal announcement," said Prince James.
He added that public works, roads, transport, safety and security MEC Steve Mabona had promised him the position.
Mabona is reputed to be the premier's staunchest ally within the ANC's divided provincial leadership structures.
Mabona was unavailable for comment. Provincial spokesperson Joy Letlonkane said Prince James had been shortlisted for the position.
Prince James defected to the ANC three weeks ago, after almost two months of public speculation about his political allegiance.
He joined the UDM after being expelled from the national parliament for non-attendance in 1996, while still serving as an ANC representative. His defection followed mounting public criticism of his perceived sabotaging of opposition initiatives in the province.
The UDM has not officially appointed Prince James's successor, and will debate the issue at a meeting with the party's national leadership.
The meeting is expected to feature a challenge to the UDM's No 1 candidate on its election list, outspoken former ANC leader Joe Nkuna.
An alliance of young UDM leaders is expected to oppose Nkuna on the grounds of an alleged drinking problem and a violent temper that saw him arrested earlier this year. - Africa Eye News Service