IFP rallies supporters for final electioneering run ahead of polls

JOHANNESBURG - The stage is set in Richards Bay, Kwazulu-Natal (KZN), where thousands of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) supporters will gather for the party's closing rally at the Umhlathuze Sports Complex on Sunday.

The IFP aims to retain its grip on the uMhlathuze Local Municipality which serves as the economic hub of northern KZN. 

Thousands of supporters are being bussed in. Given that the municipality is currently under IFP governance, the party hopes to retain its power in this once-African National Congress (ANC) stronghold.

In 2021, the IFP managed to clinch control of the municipality, after joining forces with the Democratic Alliance (DA) to oust the ANC's reign over the hotly-contested region.

Party leader Velenkosini Hlabisa will rally his troops ahead of the general elections.

This will be the first election the IFP will contest without party stalwart Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi after his death last September.