Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has secured an impressive win by wrestling control of uMhlathuze Ward 13 from the African National Congress (ANC) in a by-election that was held on Wednesday.
The by-election in Ward 13 became necessary following the unexpected resignation of an ANC councillor.
In a hotly contested race, the IFP emerged triumphant, securing 2 724 votes, equivalent to an impressive 53.38% of the total votes cast. The ANC received 2 348 votes (46.01%), while the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) garnered 31 votes, representing 0.61% of the total.
This victory in Ward 13 firmly positions the IFP to share equal representation with the ANC in the City of uMhlathuze Council.
Out of the 67 seats in the Council, both the IFP and ANC will now hold 25 seats each, ushering in a new era of political dynamics. The Democratic Alliance (DA) retains eight seats, while the EFF maintains six. The Freedom Front Plus (FF+), African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), and the National Freedom Party (NFP) each hold one seat.
The IFP in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) said it dedicates this victory to the memory of its Founder and President Emeritus, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who passed away on September 9, 2023, just two weeks ago.
“This triumph stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Prince Buthelezi and reaffirms that the IFP remains a formidable force in South African politics,” the IFP said in a statement.
With the 2024 general elections on the horizon, this victory may be an indication of how the IFP will be expected to perform in the province.
