Siboniso Duma, the chairperson of the African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and the province’s MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, is at the center of a growing scandal involving accusations of a systematic purge within the Department of Transport. The allegations suggest that Duma has been dismissing employees affiliated with his predecessor, Sipho Hlomuka, to clear the way for his own political allies.
Sources within the Department of Transport claim that the recent dismissals of several staff members, all reportedly loyal to Hlomuka, are part of a strategic move by Duma to consolidate his power ahead of the ANC’s internal elections. Duma, who succeeded Hlomuka as MEC, is said to be replacing these employees with individuals who support his bid for re-election as ANC provincial chairperson.
Critics argue that Duma’s actions reflect a broader pattern of political patronage and undermining of merit-based appointments within the public sector. Opposition parties and civil society organizations have voiced strong condemnation, accusing Duma of abusing his position to advance personal political goals at the expense of public service integrity.
A senior official within the department, speaking on the condition of anonymity, expressed deep concern over the impact of these actions on service delivery. “We are witnessing the removal of experienced and skilled personnel solely because of their perceived allegiance to the previous MEC. This undermines the effectiveness of the department, particularly one as crucial as transport,” the official stated.
The ANC’s response to these allegations has been to assert that all staffing decisions were made following standard procedures and were intended to enhance departmental efficiency. However, this defense has not sufficiently alleviated the concerns of critics or quelled the growing unease within the province.
The controversy comes at a tumultuous time for the ANC in KZN, already grappling with internal divisions and criticism over various governance issues. As the provincial leadership battle heats up, the accusations against Duma could further inflame existing tensions and complicate the party’s dynamics.
The unfolding situation is being closely monitored by political observers and stakeholders, with many waiting for further developments as the ANC gears up for its internal elections. For now, the allegations against Duma cast a significant shadow over his leadership and raise important questions about the future trajectory of the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal.