Durban – Honourable Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, has been appointed as Acting Premier of the province. This follows the temporary designation by Premier Arthur Thamsanqa Ntuli, who, along with other members of the provincial legislature, is on an official visit to the United States of America to participate in Climate Week in New York.
KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, a seasoned civil servant with over three decades of experience, officially assumed her role as Acting Premier on Monday. She will hold the position until Friday, 29 September 2024, overseeing the province’s governance during this period.
In her capacity as Acting Premier, kaMadlopha-Mthethwa will carry out the full responsibilities, powers, and functions of the office, ensuring the continuity of government operations in KwaZulu-Natal. Her extensive background in public service and her leadership in the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development make her well-suited to manage provincial affairs during this time.
Premier Ntuli and his delegation are attending Climate Week in New York, which provides a global platform for addressing urgent climate challenges. The visit aims to highlight KwaZulu-Natal’s commitment to climate action, as well as explore international partnerships for sustainable development and environmental resilience.
KaMadlopha-Mthethwa’s appointment as Acting Premier underscores her prominence in the provincial government and her ability to steer KwaZulu-Natal through key policy matters in the Premier’s absence. The temporary transition of leadership is expected to proceed smoothly, with kaMadlopha-Mthethwa taking charge of ongoing initiatives aimed at improving service delivery and promoting the socio-economic development of the province.