IFP maintains its trajectory of victory in by-elections

16 February 2023

The IFP has maintained its trajectory of victory by winning yet again, in the highly contested Inkosi Mtubatuba Ward 4 by-elections.

The IFP snatched Ward 4 from the ANC with a whopping 704 votes, while the ANC only got 562 votes, and the EFF 32.

The IFP is humbled by the support it received from the people of Mtubatuba.

Just last month, voters of Ward 9 in Mtubatuba pledged their trust and loyalty to the IFP, as they also voted for the IFP in large numbers.

Taking control of the two previously ANC-controlled Wards in one Municipality - within a space of two months - is a clear indication that the people of this province no longer have faith in the ANC.

We believe that the strength and resurgence of the IFP in KwaZulu Natal is underpinned by the legacy of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.

The people of Mtubatuba were categorical in stating that the IFP remains a better choice: to govern with integrity and to deliver a government that can fix the problems of KZN.

The IFP wins this highly contested Ward 4 by-election despite many failed attempts by the ANC to convince the people of Mtubatuba to vote for them.

We received reports of cash being given to some voters, as means of trying to sway their votes. We are also aware that state resources were allegedly used by some ANC MEC’s to attempt to swing voter support, including a number of bicycles that were given to locals by the Transport MEC, as a means of persuading Mtubatuba voters to vote for the ANC.

An administrator who is rumoured to be deployed in Mtubatuba Municipality soon was also seen driving around in a vehicle without a number-plate in Ward 4, allegedly canvassing votes for the ANC. However, the people of Mtubatuba were not fooled by the underhanded and unscrupulous canvassing tactics of the ANC.

The IFP’s victory in Ward 4 will see the IFP controlling Inkosi Mtubatuba Municipality without the assistance of the EFF. This is a clear rejection of the newly formed coalition between the ANC and the EFF in KZN. It is also a clear indication and demonstration of what is to come in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

The people of KZN continue to assure all through their votes that the IFP is indeed the Party of integrity and hope.

The IFP also understands the hunger of the people of this province for clean governance, as well as a government that works tirelessly to speedily deliver basic services to the people. The IFP remains committed to service delivery, guided by its 10-point plan.

The IFP would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to all its workers on the ground, the volunteers, and everyone who contributed to this resounding victory.

The Party’s newly-elected Councillor will serve the people with dignity, diligence and honour, as per the example of the IFP’s Founder and President Emeritus, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.

Issued by Thami Ntuli, IFP KZN Provincial Chairperson, 16 February 2023