SACP gives Mthembu the go-ahead for new role

It follows a meeting with the ANC in Durban earlier today to discuss the appointment.

The SACP says it was taken by surprise yesterday when the ANC went ahead and named Themba Mthembu as Cyril Xaba's replacement yesterday  despite having asked the ruling party for more time to consult internally.

Also read: Swearing in of KZN MEC for Agriculture delayed

Mthembu did not attend the swearing-in ceremony this morning as those consultations took place.

A short while ago the SACP and the ANC addressed the media jointly following their bilateral meeting with the ANC's Mluleki Ndobe saying they have resolved to iron out their differences.

''The meeting also acknowledged the current state of the unity of the alliance that is not very solid and agreed that the appointment of comrade Themba Mthembu is but one effort of strengthening unity. 

''But also acknowledging his skills and experience and the contribution that he would make in rural development and agrarian revolution,'' he said.

Four new MECs have earlier today taken an oath of office after their appointments were announced yesterday.

SACP Provincial Treasurer Nomarashiya Caluza says as alliance partners they wanted to be properly consulted on the appointment hence the need for this morning's bilateral meeting. 

Caluza says Mthembu's appointment should not be seen as him being a sell-out.

''There is nowhere, where Mthembu has sold out and I don't see any difference now from him being the portfolio chairperson with the responsibilities he had and the growth of the party. 

''The ability and capacity of the communist party in developing and implementing programmes to advance the struggle of the working class with the position that he is now assigned to as the MEC for Agriculture,'' she said.