On the, 18th June 2024, hundreds of people, including leaders of political parties, Amakhosi, government officials, and members of the media gathered at the Woodburn Rugby Stadium to witness the inauguration of KwaZulu-Natal Premier-elect Mr. Thami Ntuli.
The august occasion which was directed by the Director-General (DG) Nonhlanhla Mkhize in the Office of the Premier was presided over by KwaZulu-Natal High Court Judge President Ms. Thoba Poyo-Dlwati. Judge Poyo-Dlwati carried out her duty in fine fashion as she swore in Ntuli as the Premier of the province too much elation at the venue of the inauguration.
In his first address as the Premier of the province, Ntuli said the Government he was honoured to lead, stands on the cusp of a new beginning. He also expressed that he intends to lead a Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) based on the principles of Buntu-Botho. “A Government that will ensure that service delivery is rolled out to all the people of this Province.”
In the latter part of his address, the Premier announced members appointed to his Cabinet in terms of section 132, (2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996, in the following order:
1. Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs – Hon. Rev Musa Keith Zondi, MPL.
2. Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) – Hon. Rev Thulasizwe Dominic Buthelezi, MPL
3. Health – Hon. Ms Nomagugu Simelane, MPL
4. Social Development – Hon. Ms Mbali Cynthia Shinga, MPL
5. Public Works and Infrastructure – Hon. Mr Lukas Marthinus Meyer, MPL
6. Finance – Hon. Mr Francoise Adrianus Rodgers, MPL
7. Agriculture and Rural Development – Hon. Mrs Thembeni Petty kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, MPL
8. Transport and Human Settlements – Mr Siboniso Amstrong Duma, MPL
9. Education – Hon. Mr Siphosihle Emmanuel Hlomuka, MPL
10. Sports, Arts and Culture – Hon. Mr Mntomuhle Khawula, MPL
In concluding his address, the Premier unequivocally stated that he expected members of his Executive to hit the ground running to start with the mammoth task that lies ahead, of rebuilding the province of KwaZulu-Natal. “Together with my new Cabinet, I promise that we will work for you. We will deliver services, opportunities, and ultimately, hope and prosperity. I ask the People of KwaZulu-Natal, to partner with us, as we start the process of rebuilding KwaZulu-Natal.”