The Department of Social Development in KwaZulu-Natal has declined to comment following the expulsion of MEC Mbali Shinga from the National Freedom Party (NFP) over the weekend.
Shinga was found guilty of misconduct and gross insubordination after a disciplinary process linked to events dating back to December. She was accused of failing to comply with an instruction to support a motion of no confidence against KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, which was later defeated in the provincial legislature after being tabled by the uMkhonto weSizwe Party.
Following her expulsion, the NFP stated that members who are no longer part of the party automatically forfeit membership benefits and, where applicable, lose positions held through party nomination.
The party also confirmed that Shinga was given an opportunity to respond to the allegations but did not submit representations, despite receiving an extension to do so.
However, in a statement issued in December, Shinga said the process amounted to a second attempt to remove her from the legislature. She defended her position, stating that while she respects the NFP, she would not remain silent in the face of actions she believes could weaken the party.
She further cautioned that internal disputes being escalated to constitutional institutions could undermine the organisation and provide political opponents with leverage ahead of upcoming local government elections. Despite the tensions, she indicated a willingness to extend an olive branch.
Asked for comment on the matter, departmental spokesperson Innocent Shezi said the provincial department would not be engaging at this stage.
“There is no comment currently right now,” Shezi said.
The situation leaves uncertainty over Shinga’s future role within provincial government structures as political and administrative processes continue to unfold.