By Celani Sikhakhane
The ANC in KwaZulu-Natal has had to lay off 15 staff members and close some of its offices in certain regions because of financial troubles.
The party lost more than 30 seats in the KZN legislature in the 29 May elections, leading to a big drop in funding.
The ANC used to be the richest political party in the province, receiving R4.4-million monthly from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) because it had 44 seats in the Pietermaritzburg legislature.
However, the party won only 14 seats in the recent elections.
As a result, its monthly funding was cut to R1.4-million. The IEC gives R99,000 per seat every month, so with fewer seats, the ANC’s income dropped significantly.
The loss has forced the party to close some of its offices in certain regions.
It is also facing challenges in local government after losing control of key municipalities in the province.
On Thursday, ANC provincial spokesperson Mafika Mndebele told Scrolla.Africa: “After the 29 May elections, we decided to restructure our staff. We had to let go of 15 workers because we no longer get the funding we used to receive.”
Mndebele denied rumours that the ANC owes unpaid rent of R400,000 on its previous Durban city centre offices.
“We don’t owe anyone; our office finances are up to date,” Mndebele said.
Pictured above: The ANC KZN headquarters, Dr Pixley ka Isaka Seme House, in Durban.
Image source: X
