Zululanders shine in Zuma’s cabinet

THE ANC Musa Dladla region says the election of Zululand ministers to the national cabinet is reflective of the calibre of leaders emanating from northern KZN.

Out of the 36 ministers appointed this week, President Jacob Zuma entrusted three Zululanders – Nathi Mthethwa, Mildred Oliphant and Nkosinathi Nhleko with key positions in his cabinet.

Mthethwa, who hails from KwaMthethwa moved from the police portfolio to head up Arts and Culture while former Deputy Municipal Manager at the City of uMhlathuze, Nkosinathi Nhleko will take over the reins in the Police ministry. Labour Minister Mildred Oliphant of Empangeni retains her post for a second term.

Chairperson of the ANC, Musa Dladla Thulani Mashaba said this signaled that ‘more leaders from Zululand would be elected in the future’.

‘We are producing leaders of quality in the region and the latest election shows the confidence of the entire leadership in our leaders. We congratulate Nkosinathi, who has been in the organisation for many years and is a son of the KwaMzimela area. He will certainly make a difference in the police ministry. Mildred is a daughter of this region for more than 40 years and has been involved in many ANC structures,’ said Mashaba.

He also congratulated Mthethwa on his appointment adding that it was not a ‘demotion’ as described by the media.

‘How can it be a demotion when he is still a minister? His leadership in Arts and Culture will benefit the people of KwaMthethwa and this region as a whole.’

The re-appointment of Senzo Mchunu as KZN premier and KZN MEC Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs – Michael Mabuyakhulu was also lauded.

‘With the redeployment, we are hoping that the northern regions will see more growth and development, speedily. The economy must grow as in the case of the southern regions. I am happy that during my term, the president, premier and three cabinet ministers come from our region,’ Mashaba said.

He is currently the Minister of Police