The chairperson of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) in KwaZulu-Natal, Thami Ntuli, has downplayed the reported tensions between the MEC for CoGTA, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi and the ANC in the government of provincial unity (GPU) and in the province.

Ntuli, who is also the premier in the GPU, says it was always expected that there would be differences since they come from different political parties.

The provincial IFP leader was responding to a question from the African Times during a press briefing in Durban earlier on Thursday. The party called the briefing to update the public about latest developments and its preparations for the 2026 local government elections where it is expected to square off with the MK Party.

Ntuli said differences flare up even if the government is made up of cabinet members from the same political party. The ANC in Kwazulu-Natal has repeatedly accused Buthelezi of being divisive and posing a risk to the existence of the GPU. 

“I don’t think there is a much bigger challenge. I know that from a media briefing they (the ANC) had, they highlighted some of the concerns which we were able to sit down and consider,” Ntuli said.
“A normal thing, in fact, we are coming from different political parties forming the government of provincial unity. So, we have different mandates, so, you cannot expect that right from the onset it will be just quite.

He added: “Even among one political party you will find that there will be some issues of discussions and engagements. So, I think that is normal, the coalition is strong, we are working quite very well, we are achieving what we promised the people of KwaZulu-Natal, I am satisfied.”

Ntuli was also asked whether he will contest for the party’s presidency currently held by Cogta Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa. He said he is not available for any position at national level.

“I am not available for any position, what I know we have the president, current we have the deputy president,” he said.