STRENGTHEN your structures, IFP president tells members as party gears up for the 2026 elections.
The president of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has urged party members to build credible and functional branches as the foundation for strengthening the organisation ahead of next year's local elections.
Speaking to a large gathering of IFP members at the Shane Sports Ground in the uMvoti Constituency, under the uMzinyathi District, on Sunday, 28 September, Hlabisa stressed that branches remain the lifeblood of the party.
"For a political party to survive, it must have structures. The basic structures of the IFP are the branches. They are the engine and the heart of the party. If the engine is dead or the heart isn't functioning, the organisation can't live," he said.
He emphasised that only genuine and vibrant branches, not those that exist on paper only, would carry the IFP to victory.
"We must revive and strengthen our structures because they're the pillars of our campaign. Only credible and vibrant branches will carry us to victory in the upcoming elections, not bogus branches that exist only in name," said Hlabisa.
The IFP president also reminded members that all constituencies have been given a deadline to properly start their branches in preparation for the poll.
Honouring Councillor Vincent Zondi
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During his visit, Hlabisa also paid tribute to long-serving Councillor Vincent Zondi of Ward 4 in uMvoti, who has faithfully represented his community since 1996.
"Councillor Zondi has served for four terms. I know he's popular, but the response from the community exceeded my expectations. The jubilation and gratitude shown towards him demonstrate that he's a true servant of the people," said Hlabisa.
He said Zondi's dedication stands as an example of what public service should be.
"All around, people complain about councillors who don't serve them. But when you see a community showing such appreciation for a councillor, it excites you. It proves that Zondi has worked with his heart."
An emotional Councillor Zondi reflected on his decades of service, saying he had stood the test of time.
"I've worked hard for my community and the IFP. Many have tried to persuade me to leave, even offering me 30 cattle to stop contesting as a councillor. But I rejected those offers," he revealed.
He credited the late IFP founder, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, for instilling in him values that guided his service.
"The late Dr Buthelezi taught me that true leadership is rooted in honesty, discipline, and not being money-driven. I remain committed to those values, and sincerely appreciate President Hlabisa for his visit," said Zondi.
