Celani Sikhakhane
KwaZulu-Natal Natal has finally elected its first female premier after more than 28 years of democracy.
Nomsa Dube-Ncube, once the speaker of eThekwini Metro was elected on Wednesday after the special sitting of the KZN Legislature in Mooi River.
Dube-Ncube’s election follows the resignation of Sihle Zikalala who was defeated as the ANC chairperson of the province at the elective conference last month.
Soon after her election, Dube-Ncube promised to continue with the work Zikalala started – to uplift women across different industries.
“I will work hard to make sure they are given opportunities in different sectors. I will also make sure that I fight against the patriarchy in this province,” she added.
Dube-Ncube was reportedly snubbed during her bid to win the premiership of the province in 2019 after her name was removed from the list that was suggested to President Cyril Ramaphosa.
She has been described as one of the most experienced leaders in the KZN government after being Ambassador to the Czech Republic.
Scrolla.Africa understands that she was once tipped to become the mayor of eThekwini Metro but she was also snubbed then to make way for the Obed Mlaba.
Political analyst Thabani Khumalo said Dube-Ncube is the best choice for KZN because she has vast experience in dealing with the traditional leadership and the Zulu Royal issues.
She was also a favourite of the late King Zwelithini whilst she was MEC of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs.
She has also been the MEC for Finance as well as the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs.
Dube-Ncube is expected to announce her cabinet soon.
Scrolla.Africa understands that the new cabinet will be dominated by members of the Taliban faction.
On Wednesday the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Ravi Pillay resigned shortly after Dube-Ncube was announced as premier.
Former Newcastle mayor Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba has been tipped as the new MEC for the Department of Health while Nomagugu Simelane-Zulu is said to be named as the new MEC for Education.
