Note to Editors: Please note Marlaine Nair, MPL sound bite in English
The DA in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) welcomes confirmation that all allegations against uMngeni Mayor, Chris Pappas, were unsubstantiated, bringing welcome closure to a saga that once dominated politics in our province.
Two years ago, a narrative was allowed to gather momentum – without evidence. Both the COGTA investigation and the Public Protector have now confirmed what was true from the beginning: there was no wrongdoing.
This issue highlights how easily untested claims or smear campaigns can distract from the real work of governance.
Throughout this period, uMngeni Municipality continued to make measurable progress – strengthening financial management, stabilising its administration and delivering people-centred services. This consistent performance reflects the integrity, resilience and results-driven ethos of DA governance, showing, yet again, that even in the midst of political noise and chaos, we remain strong, stable and reliable.
KZN’s people need a provincial government with a record of clean administration – one that can extend its footprint into every municipality in the 2026 local government elections. They deserve leaders who take their concerns seriously, rather than playing political games, and who remain focused on improving lives. They do not need a return to a political culture where allegations outrun facts or where public trust is treated casually.
The DA, as a responsible partner within KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) has a clear mandate: to strengthen municipalities, protect stability, and deliver real, measurable results for our all our province’s people.