By Celani Sikhakhane
- Lamontville councillor Sthembiso Ngema enters the race to replace outgoing provincial leader, with nominations submitted alongside other senior party figures this week.
- Francois Rodgers steps down to focus on provincial government finances and family business, saying the party needs younger leaders to take over in KwaZulu-Natal.
A councillor from Lamontville in Durban is in line to lead the Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu-Natal.
Sthembiso Ngema has put his name forward to replace Francois Rodgers, who will step down next month. Ngema currently serves as the party’s deputy provincial leader.
He submitted his nomination on Monday. Mzamo Billy, a member of the National Council of Provinces, also entered the race.
Dean Macpherson has indicated he wants to return as provincial chairperson. Martin Meyer, the MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, has accepted a nomination for deputy leader.
Ngema said he has worked closely with Rodgers in his role as deputy leader. He said he supported efforts to grow the party in the province.
Ngema is known in the party for his activism and hands on political style. Before politics, he served as a police reservist for nine years.
Rodgers said he is stepping down to focus on building the finances of the provincial government. He also wants to spend more time on his family business in Kokstad.
He said it is time for younger leaders to take over the party in the province.
The Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu-Natal has grown since earlier leadership changes after the departure of senior figures in the party.
Pictured above: Sthembiso Ngema, a Durban councillor, is tipped to become the next Democratic Alliance leader in KwaZulu-Natal.
Image source: Facebook
