Anyone who understands the workings of governmental clusters will fully comprehend the sensible decision by KZN Premier, Thami Ntuli, to temporarily appoint Social Development MEC, Mbali Shinga, as acting MEC for Health.
The extent of outrage around this appointment from certain quarters beggars belief. There also appears to be a deliberate and even careless misunderstanding that this is a permanent appointment. It is not.
When a Member of the Executive Council (MEC) is on leave or unavailable for any lawful reason, the Premier is well within his rights to appoint another MEC to act in that role. This is neither novel nor irregular. The purveyors of falsehoods about KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) and its workings constantly strive to sow discord, when there is none more than what is notably minor.
I have already engaged with MEC Shinga on matters requiring communication with my office - where, within the GPU, I serve as KZN Health Portfolio Committee Chairperson - and the same courtesy and urgency were evident as when MEC Simelane occupies office. That is to be welcomed.
KZN’s GPU remains intact. MEC Shinga’s appointment reflects a functioning cabinet and contributes to internal cohesion among political parties on government benches. The DA rejects the notion, fashionable in some circles, that this was done without consultation or as some form of reward. Both ideas are patently absurd.
The DA remains a committed member of the GPU, firmly focused on building a capable, ethical and caring state for the people of KZN. | Dr IMRAN KEEKA MPL, Pietermaritzburg