Coalition+Nation, ANC Allies Criticize ‘Lack of Consultation’ in KZN Coalition Talks Durban, South Africa – The Coalition+Nation and allies of the African National Congress (ANC) have expressed concerns over the lack of consultation and secretive handling of coalition talks in KwaZulu-Natal. According to the parties involved, they were excluded from the discussions that resulted in a coalition agreement between the ANC and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). The coalition is set to take control of several municipalities in the province. The Coalition+Nation, a coalition of independent candidates and small parties, said it was “deeply concerned” that it was not consulted before the coalition was formed. The party’s spokesman, Sandile Nxumalo, accused the ANC of “arrogance” and “secretiveness.” “These negotiations were done in the dark and without the involvement of other stakeholders,” Nxumalo said. “This is a clear violation of democratic principles and undermines the integrity of the electoral process.” ANC allies, including the National Freedom Party (NFP) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), have also criticized the handling of the coalition talks. The NFP’s provincial leader, Vikizitha Mlotshwa, said his party was “not prepared to be treated like rubber stamps.” “We have our own constituencies and our own interests,” Mlotshwa said. “We cannot be expected to support a coalition that was negotiated behind our backs.” The EFF’s provincial chairman, Vusi Khoza, accused the ANC of “selling out” to the IFP. He said the EFF would not be part of any coalition that did not prioritize the interests of the poor and working class. “We are not interested in power for power’s sake,” Khoza said. “We will only support a coalition that is committed to transforming society and uplifting our people.” The ANC has defended its handling of the coalition talks, saying it was necessary to act swiftly to ensure stability in KwaZulu-Natal. ANC provincial chairman, Sihle Zikalala, said the party had consulted with all relevant stakeholders, including the Coalition+Nation. “We cannot allow a vacuum to exist in government,” Zikalala said. “We have a responsibility to provide our people with services and ensure their safety.” However, the Coalition+Nation and ANC allies have called for a more transparent and inclusive approach to coalition negotiations. They said they would continue to push for their voices to be heard and for the interests of all stakeholders to be taken into account.The ANC alliance partners in KwaZulu-Natal have expressed dissatisfaction with the provincial leadership’s handling of coalition talks and the dismissal of eThekwini mayor Mxolisi Kaunda. The SACP, Sanco, and Cosatu have criticized the ANC’s “secret handling” of these matters and have accused the provincial leaders of arrogance. They have also expressed concern over the ANC’s performance in recent elections.The ANC alliance partners in KwaZulu-Natal have expressed dissatisfaction with the provincial leadership’s handling of coalition talks and the dismissal of eThekwini mayor Mxolisi Kaunda. The SACP, Sanco, and Cosatu have criticized the ANC’s “secret handling” of these matters and have accused the provincial leaders of arrogance. They have also expressed concern over the ANC’s performance in recent elections. Meanwhile, the ANC, IFP, and DA are reportedly negotiating a co-government agreement in the province. South Africans are encouraged to subscribe to News24’s free subscription trial to access the full story and other news articles aimed at informing, empowering, and inspiring readers.ANC Alliance Criticizes Lack of Consultation, Secrecy in KZN Coalition Talks The African National Congress (ANC) and its allies have expressed concern over the alleged lack of consultation and secretive handling of coalition talks in KwaZulu-Natal. Following the inconclusive provincial elections, negotiations have been underway to form a coalition government. However, opposition parties have accused the ANC of engaging in opaque negotiations without consulting them adequately. The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), one of the ANC’s potential coalition partners, has stated that it was not given sufficient time to consult with its structures before the coalition agreement was announced. The party also questioned the ANC’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the process. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), another possible ally, has echoed these sentiments. The party’s Provincial Chairperson has criticized the ANC for allegedly excluding the EFF from key negotiations and making unilateral decisions. The ANC has defended its actions, arguing that it had consulted with the relevant stakeholders. However, the opposition parties maintain that the consultations were inadequate and that they were not given a fair opportunity to participate in the decision-making. The lack of transparency and consultation has raised concerns about the legitimacy and stability of any potential coalition government. Opposition parties argue that without proper input from all stakeholders, the coalition will lack the necessary consensus and support to govern effectively. The ANC has urged the opposition to come forward with evidence of any wrongdoing or lack of consultation. However, the opposition remains skeptical and is calling for a more inclusive and transparent approach to the coalition talks. As negotiations continue, it remains unclear whether a stable coalition government can be formed in KwaZulu-Natal. The lack of trust and transparency among the parties involved has cast a shadow over the process and raised concerns about the future of governance in the province.