• Projected over-expenditure reduced from R9.725 billion to approximately R2.5 billion – a 74% improvement.
• Achievement a clear endorsement of prudent, reform-driven approach by Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers.
• KZN progress is proof that GPU disciplined governance is delivering results.
(Please note Tim Brauteseth, MPL sound bite in English)
The Democratic Alliance welcomes the announcement that KwaZulu-Natal’s (KZN) projected over-expenditure has been reduced by an impressive R7.2 billion since the establishment of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) in June 2024.
This remarkable turnaround demonstrates what can be achieved through responsible governance, fiscal discipline and competent leadership.
The province has reduced projected over-expenditure from R9.725 billion to approximately R2.5 billion – an improvement of 74% – while simultaneously protecting and improving frontline services.
This achievement is a clear endorsement of the prudent and reform-driven approach championed by KZN Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers. Rather than resorting to reckless promises or ideological experiments, MEC Rodgers has focused on the fundamentals of good governance. This includes tighter expenditure controls, stronger cash management, enhanced accountability and a coordinated Financial Recovery Plan. These are the building blocks of sustainable public finances and effective service delivery.
The results speak for themselves. While restoring fiscal stability, KZN has recorded measurable gains in education, health and infrastructure delivery. These include;
• A 90.6% matric pass rate in 2025
• Employment of more than 4 000 community health workers
• Expanded access to chronic medication, more ambulances, more healthcare professionals and;
• Advanced critical infrastructure projects that support economic opportunity and job creation.
These achievements stand in stark contrast to the chaotic, populist and economically destructive approach advanced by the uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP). That party’s fixation on failed ideological views, state dependency and anti-growth policies would undermine investor confidence, weaken public finances and place essential services at risk.
History has repeatedly shown that governments guided by slogans rather than sound financial management inevitably leave citizens poorer and public institutions weaker.
The DA, as a solid partner within KZN’s GPU, remains committed to building a capable state that spends taxpayers’ money wisely, strengthens accountability and creates the conditions for growth and opportunity. The progress made within KZN is proof that disciplined governance delivers results, while reckless ideology delivers decline.