‘New leaders needed’

IFP president Mangosuthu Buthelezi told party supporters at rallies in Ulundi and Nkandla over the weekend that it would take a change of leadership to rescue the country.

“The best solution is to empower a party that can be trusted. A party that has proved its worth. As we approach elections, I ask you to speak about these things in your homes and in your schools,” he said.

Buthelezi said it was essential to refocus the attention of the government away from politics and power games, towards the needs of the people. He said there was no excuse for the country’s leaders to be focused on infighting.

“No matter who wins the chair-throwing contest at political meetings, the reality remains that South Africa is in crisis.

“Our economy is stagnant and food prices are increasing. Jobs are scarce and poverty is widespread.

“It will take a changed leadership to rescue our country. It will take a leadership of integrity,” he said.

Buthelezi said drastic measures were needed to redirect South Africa.

“I am not talking about radical economic transformation, whatever that actually means. I am not talking about social upheaval and protests. I’m talking about replacing leaders who are failing to lead.

“Those who are damaging our economy with poor policies and bad decisions.Those who are spending money in the wrong ways, on the wrong things. Those who are enriching themselves while the people suffer,” said Buthelezi.

The IFP president said his party was ready, willing and able to lead the rescue mission to save South Africa through a mandate of South Africans that must come via the elections.

He encouraged supporters to think of ways to grow the IFP towards the 2019 general elections.

“Get involved in a branch. Start a new branch. Think of a way to grow the IFP, because you have a contribution to make to the future,” he said.