IFP 'solid, strong, and growing' - Hlengwa

DURBAN - The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) said that it had managed to prove that it was able to remain a political player, despite the passing of its founding president and leader, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.

This month marks a year since Buthelezi’s passing.

And for the first time, the party held a manifesto launch and contested elections without Buthelezi at its helm.

The IFP also pointed to recent developments within its structures, saying they proved that the party would continue to function without Buthelezi.  

It has been a year since IFP president Emeritus Mangosuthu Buthelezi passed away.

Some had predicted that the IFP may not survive his passing and would fail to continue his legacy.  

Party spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said though it had been a difficult year for the party without Buthelezi, they were doing well.  

"The IFP certainly exceeded and surpassed anyone’s expectations. The party is solid, strong, and growing, which is why there is a surge in membership drive of people joining. And the party continues to perform well in by-elections, and we are consolidating our gains."

The IFP leads with a coalition in the KZN provincial government and is also part of the Government National Unity (GNU).