MKP invites NFP to discuss second no-confidence motion against KZN premier

The MK Party has invited the National Freedom Party (NFP) to join discussions surrounding a proposed second motion of no confidence against KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli. 

The invitation, issued by MKP’s Second Deputy President Tony Yengeni, seeks to bring together progressive political forces in the province to deliberate on the political context surrounding the motion and explore areas of convergence and divergence within the legislature, consistent with each organisation’s mandate and ideological stance.

This follows the failure of the first motion of no confidence against Ntuli, which was held in the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature in December.

IOL previously reported that the MK Party brought the motion because it believes Ntuli is presiding over an underperforming administration characterised by corruption and financial mismanagement. 

Although the MK Party won the largest share of the vote in the 2024 provincial elections with more than 40%, it fell short of an outright majority and was excluded from the coalition.

The motion required at least 41 votes to pass in the 80-member legislature. 

The KZN Legislature descended into chaos during the motion of no confidence, as members of the MKP and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) demanded a secret ballot.

The disruption occurred after a ruling by KZN Speaker Nontembeko Boyce against the secret ballot. MKP members argued that they had received threats and could not vote openly without fear of retaliation.

Despite these concerns, Boyce rejected the demand, prompting MKP and EFF members to protest by singing on the legislative floor.

In the letter, dated February 5, 2026, and addressed to NFP President Ivan Barnes, Yengeni emphasised the importance of the multilateral engagement in light of the evolving political climate in KwaZulu-Natal.

He stated that the meeting would serve as a platform for “an open and principled exchange” on the issues at hand, especially governance, accountability, and the will of the people in the province.

Yengeni further stressed the collaborative nature of the meeting, inviting the NFP to join in deliberating “the proposed second motion of no confidence in the premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thami Ntuli.”

He explained that the gathering was convened to reflect on the shared responsibility of progressive forces to consult and coordinate on critical matters affecting the province’s political landscape.

The meeting has been scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026, with MKP requesting confirmation of NFP’s attendance and the composition of their delegation at the earliest opportunity.

Yengeni expressed hope that the engagement would be constructive, to advance the interests of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.

“We look forward to your positive response and to a constructive engagement in the interests of the people of KwaZulu-Natal,” Yengeni said. 

In response, the NFP, through its Acting Secretary General, Bheki Xaba, acknowledged receipt of the invitation but pointed out that the proposed date was on short notice.

Xaba conveyed the NFP leadership’s prior commitments that would prevent their participation on the suggested date. His letter, dated February 3, 2026, made it clear that the NFP would not be able to attend the meeting on the originally proposed date.

However, Xaba expressed a willingness to engage in a meaningful dialogue and proposed an alternative date for the meeting, suggesting that the engagement be rescheduled to Saturday, February 7, 2026.

He expressed confidence that this new date would be acceptable to MKP leadership and reiterated the NFP’s commitment to fostering strong relations and cooperation between the two parties.

"We trust that this proposed date will be acceptable to your leadership, and we remain committed to strengthening relations and engagements between our respective organisations," Xaba said in the letter. 

Meanwhile, the NFP has also confirmed that it is engaged in discussions with other political parties in the province.

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has requested a Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) engagement with the NFP delegation, which is still being considered.

The NFP leadership has made it clear, however, that such discussions will be conducted on a one-on-one basis, ensuring that no selective treatment will be applied.

The NFP reaffirmed its commitment to core values such as “ethical governance,” “efficient leadership,” and “meaningful service delivery,” all of which are fundamental to the party’s mission.

The NFP further stated that any political engagements or decisions will be guided by these values and the collective will of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.

hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za 

IOL Politics