She’s daddy’s boss in council but not at home

HE held her in his arms when she was a baby and gave her all his fatherly love, but not once did he think that one day his daughter would become his boss.

Meet the Ncalanes — councillor Frank Mbongwa Ncalane, 66, and his 34-year-old daughter, Zama, the deputy mayor of Maphumulo municipality, near KwaDukuza, north of Durban.

The Ncalanes were sworn in this week in a woman-led council where Matozi Dlamini is the mayor.

Frank is a veteran councillor whereas his daughter is making her debut as a public office bearer, although she has worked for the council as a youth affairs manager.

Working together is no big deal as previously Frank was an ANC branch chairman and Zama the secretary.

Zama said her father recruited her into politics in her early 20s. “He used to regale me with political stories, struggle and leadership, and this was inculcated in my head and I eventually drew some interest in politics,” she said.

Zama joined the ANC Youth League and is now a member of the KwaDukuza regional executive committee.

“My father had nothing to do with my rise as a politician. In fact, he does not look to me as his leader. To him I will always be a daughter.”

Zama, who still lives with her father, said that when they got home he still demanded tea, and to be run a hot bath.

“I will be able to call him to order when he strays. I’m his boss at work, but he will always be the boss at our home.”

Frank had nothing but praise for his daughter. “She’s a very diligent child, that’s why I’m not surprised that she has achieved so much.”