The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has directed some of its structures to swiftly conclude their internal elections and shift their focus to preparing for the upcoming local government elections, where it is expected to face off with the MK Party.
In a statement issued after a meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), the party said all outstanding branch inaugurations must be finalised by 31 May 2026.
It said it has deployed leaders to districts to support, guide, and oversee this process, and these leaders are mandated to ensure that all structures are compliant, functional, and report progress weekly to the NEC.
Moreover, the NEC directed that all eligible constituency and district conferences must be convened by 30 June 2026, with leadership elected where applicable.
“These structures are critical in driving grassroots mobilisation and ensuring that the Party’s message reaches every community,” the NEC said in the statement.
The NEC also added that the long-awaited provincial and national elective conferences would be on hold and would be held early next year, as all attention would now be shifted to the local government elections.
The delay comes amid wrangling between factions of the party vying for power in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and at the national level.
“Provincial Conferences, together with the National Conference, will be held no later than March 2027, ensuring continuity and stability in leadership during the election period. The IFP calls on all its members, supporters, and volunteers to rise to this moment with renewed commitment and determination.
“The 2026 Local Government Elections are not merely a contest for seats—they are a battle for the future of our communities. It is therefore imperative that we defend and build upon the gains the Party has made, particularly in municipalities where the IFP has demonstrated ethical, accountable, and service-driven governance,” it added.
The last time the IFP had a national elective conference was in August 2019, when the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who had been in power for 44 years, handed the baton to Velenkosini Hlabisa.
