Thami Ntuli survives no-confidence vote amid chaos at KZN Legislature

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has survived a motion of no confidence brought by the uMkhonto weSizwe Party at the KZN Legislature on Monday, amid scenes of chaos that disrupted proceedings.

Chaos broke out inside the legislature shortly after the sitting began. About 15 minutes into the disruptions, a member of the house who required medical attention was seen lying on the floor. The identity of the member was not disclosed and the individual remained on the ground for some time.

The member reportedly fell during a scuffle as MK Party members attempted to prevent South African Police Service (SAPS) officers in full uniform from occupying the chamber.

Provincial Legislature Speaker Nothemba Boyce had already announced that Ntuli had survived the motion of no confidence. MK Party members had attempted to block the voting process, but Boyce proceeded to announce the results, confirming that Ntuli remains premier.

As Boyce attempted to leave the chamber following the announcement, MK Party members blocked her path. Additional officials came to her assistance, allowing her to exit the house. Chaos continued inside the legislature, with some members seen throwing water and water bottles at SAPS officers. By law, uniformed police officers carrying weapons are not permitted inside a parliamentary sitting.

Earlier on Monday, Boyce declined a request by the MK Party for a secret ballot during the motion of no confidence vote against Ntuli. The party had called for a secret ballot, citing fears of victimisation of some members.

Pandemonium escalated when MK Party members stood up in protest after Boyce indicated that voting would continue. Police remain inside the chamber as MK Party members later moved away, allowing a measure of calm to return to the legislature.