GBV allegations rock KZN Premier's office

Director-General allegedly resigned after altercation with colleague

- THAMI MAGUBANE and SIPHESIHLE BUTHELEZI

THE Office of the Premier in KwaZulu-Natal has been rocked by allegations of gender-based violence after the most senior civil service staff member in that office suddenly quit her post, allegedly after she was threatened by a male staffer.

The chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on the Office of the Premier, Mbali Frazer, raised the issue.

She has written to Premier Thami Ntuli demanding an explanation regarding the resignation of Director-General Dr Nonhlanhla Mkhize, who resigned suddenly this week.

Frazer said it was alleged that Mkhize quit after allegedly being subjected to verbal abuse and threatening conduct by a senior male staff member in that office.

Attempts to contact Dr Mkhize were unsuccessful yesterday.

The premier's office acknowledged Dr Mkhize's resignation a few days ago but did not give a reason for her resignation.

"As the first female Director-General of KwaZulu-Natal, she leaves behind a powerful legacy of transformation, collaboration and excellence in public service. Her ability to foster unity across both the political and administrative spheres will have a lasting impact on the governance of our province," the statement from the premier's office said.