IFP divided over army deployment in Durban
Premier Thami Ntuli has defended deploying the army in Durban after unrest, despite backlash from within the IFP over the decision.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has defended his decision to deploy the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) in Durban, following days of unrest that saw 14 cars torched and several buildings burnt.
The deployment has drawn criticism from within his own party.
IFP Deputy Mayoral candidate Sizwe “Mavava” Sikhakhane criticised the move, saying the calling in of the army was an attack on black people and South Africans at large.
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“If Ntuli was serious about calling the army, he would have sent the army long ago to remove and deport foreign nationals who were occupying Moore Road illegally. We have soldiers in South Africa to disturb South African peace and rights,” Sikhakhane said in a media interview.
Sikhakhane also called on the Premier to account for arrests made during the unrest.
Defending his decision, Ntuli said his responsibility as Premier, who is directly in charge of community safety, was to protect life and property.
“That responsibility is not subject to a popularity barometer. Those who observed the July 2021 riots will remember that deadly chaos spread very fast. We learnt a lesson from that. KwaZulu-Natal will never be allowed to burn again,” Ntuli said.
“I would rather be right and unpopular than popular and wrong,” he added.
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