IFP in KZN thanks voters for continued by-elections support
29 June 2023
The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) is pleased to announce more success in recent by-elections held on 28 June 2023.
Thanks to the unwavering support of the people of KZN, the IFP emerged victorious in three out of the four contested wards yesterday, securing a clear mandate from the people in Alfred Duma Municipality's Ward 29 and Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality's Wards 5 and 21.
The IFP retained the highly contested Ward 29 of Alfred Duma Municipality with an impressive 1517 votes, while the ANC trailed behind with 1278 votes.
This remarkable achievement is again testament to the confidence and trust that the voters have placed in the IFP.
Equally noteworthy, is the IFP's outstanding triumph in Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality's Ward 5, despite the ANC's unfair utilisation of state resources and its attempts to sway voters through the distribution of food parcels during the by-elections.
Yet, IFP prevailed, as voters steadfastly resisted these tactics, reaffirming their faith in the IFP.
Furthermore, in Ward 21 of Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality, the IFP's dedication to the community was rewarded with an overwhelming 1 818 votes, to the ANC’s 1374 votes.
While we celebrate these remarkable successes, we vehemently dispute the results in Ward 14 of Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality.
The IFP categorically rejects the outcome due to grave concerns regarding the integrity of the electoral process.
After uncovering substantial evidence of coercive tactics employed by the ANC, the IFP swiftly lodged a formal complaint and grievance with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on the day of the by-elections.
The IFP has uncovered compelling information that exposes the ANC's involvement in coercing voters in Ward 14.
Disturbing reports indicate that ANC representatives actively enticed individuals to vote for their party, coercing them to take a photograph of their marked ballot as evidence.
In return, these voters were promised food parcels, which were stored in a nearby community hall and distributed using government trucks.
These actions flagrantly disregard the laws and regulations prohibiting campaigning on the day of the election, as well as the buying of votes.
The IFP firmly opposes such undemocratic and unethical practices, which not only undermine the principles of fair and free elections, but also erode the trust of the community in the electoral process.
We call upon the IEC to conduct a thorough investigation into these serious grievances and ensure that justice is served.
As a Party committed to upholding democratic values, the IFP refuses to accept the legitimacy of the results in Ward 14.
We stand resolute in our determination to rectify this situation and safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process.
The IFP extends its sincerest gratitude to the citizens and voters of Inkosi Langalibalele and Alfred Duma Municipalities for their unwavering support and trust in the party.
We are truly humbled by the faith placed in us, and we remain committed to upholding the legacy of our President Emeritus and Founder, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi MP.
The IFP believes that these victories are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and progressive vision of our candidates and Party.
We will continue to prioritise the needs of the people, champion good governance, and work tirelessly to uplift our communities.
Issued by Thami Ntuli, IFP KZN Chairperson, 29 June 2023
