Mhlaba Memela

Mhlaba Memela

Opposition parties in KwaZulu-Natal yesterday committed to supporting and working closely with newly elected KwaZulu-Natal Premier Zweli Mkhize.

IFP national chairperson Zanele Magwaza-Msibi heaped praise on Mkhize but cautioned that he should adopt "zero tolerance towards corruption".

"We will support him as we expect him to give respect to the people. And he must not adopt an arrogant approach that previous government leaders did."

Magwaza-Msibi said Mkhize must ensure his government reduces unemployment.

She also said Mkhize should see to it that more matriculants train as teachers and that more nurses are trained.

KZN political commentator Protas Madlala also praised the decision to appoint Mkhise.

DA leader John Steehnuisen said he admired Mkhize and his party was looking forward to working with him to bring service delivery to the people.

But Steehnuisen expressed concern about the appointment of former health MEC Neliswa "Peggy" Nkonyeni to the position of speaker.

"We are proud of what Mkhize has done in the department of health. The economy of the province is growing," said Minority Front leader Amichard Rajbansi.