Macpherson denies corruption over DA candidate selection process

THE DA's KwaZulu-Natal provincial chairperson, Dean Macpherson, has angrily denied corruption allegations levelled against him by his lesser-known former ally, Nhlanhla Mtshali, who has accused him of manipulating the selection process for public office bearers.

In a leaked resignation letter, Mtshali claimed that Macpherson allegedly acted corruptly during some of the DA's selection of candidates for positions such as ward councillors and mayors, favouring individuals close to him. 

Mtshali, who joined the DA in 2016, previously served as Ward 58 branch chairperson and was a member of the party's provincial selection panel.

"You, as provincial chairperson, have failed us. Since I joined the DA in 2016, the party has had no freedom, fairness, diversity, or equal opportunity for all,” said Mtshali.

Macpherson labelled the accusations was without basis. 

“What this guy is saying is nonsense and lacks any substance. I don’t appoint officer bearers. The PEC (provincial executive committee) does so with the concurrence of the chairperson of federal council. It would have to be a massive conspiracy between 50-plus people. This sounds more like the ramblings of a deranged and mad individual,” said Macpherson.

Macpherson, currently also serving as the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, accused Mtshali of elevating his profile as he eyes a councillor position in Ward 58. He vowed that the DA would not be distracted by what he called "mad individuals."

“This guy wants to remove our councillor in Ward 58 (eThekwini). We will not tolerate this person,” said Macpherson.

Despite indicating his resignation in the letter, Mtshali gave a contradictory statement to the Daily News, saying he remained in the DA and plans to “fight from within.”

“I have not resigned from the party,” he stated. “I want them to fire me, so I can take everyone I brought into the DA with me when I leave.”

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