Harsh wake-up call for ANC
THE IFP's dominance of the region's political landscape indicates the threat it poses to the ANC in the upcoming national elections.
This was the view of political analyst and Unizulu lecturer Maxwell Shamase following the IFP by-election victory in Ward 13 under the City of uMhlathuze on Wednesday.
IFP candidate Sibusiso Ndunakazi received 2 724 votes, ANC candidate Thandeka Ntombiyombuso Makutshwa 2 348, and the EFF candidate Lucky Madala Nzima 31.
The ward became vacant after ANC Councillor Lindo Ndlovu resigned following a botched assassination attempt in July.
Since 2021, the IFP has won all byelections in King Cetshwayo District.
Of the 67 seats in the city, both the IFP and ANC hold 25, the DA 8, EFF 6, and the FF+, ACDP, and NFP hold one seat each.
A 'wake-up call' to the ANC
Shamase says voters are 'fed up' with the ANC because of the corruption.
“To me, these by-election results are pointers that the IFP is gaining back power, which is supported by the quality of its service delivery,” he said.
“Fixing potholes, supporting emerging businesses, and hosting events such as horse racing and Miss King Cetshwayo are some of the things that made voters to trust them.
“The arrest of Jacob Zuma dented the ANC badly, even though they deny it.”
He said most resigning councillors are from the ANC: “This is like a floor-crossing revenge. This is a wake-up call to the ruling party as it gives the IFP the upper hand. They may take KZN back in coalition with other political parties,” continued Shamase.
Commemoration of Buthelezi
IFP provincial chair Thami Ntuli said they dedicate their victory to the memory of the party's late founder, Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
“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,” said Ntuli.
“Our impressive performance in this by-election reflects our unwavering commitment to the people and our readiness to lead. With the 2024 general elections on the horizon, this victory sends a clear message that the IFP is a dominant force in the province.”
Ntuli said they encourage the newly-elected Cllr Ndunakazi to draw inspiration from Buthelezi.
“We call on him to be a humble, respectful, and a dedicated champion of service delivery for the people of Ward
13,” said Ntuli.
ANC Musa Dladla Regional Secretary, Nathi Xulu, however, said that failing to win byelections is 'not the downfall of the ANC'.
“Those who caused the by-election started their campaign before the byelection was announced. So it would be unfair to judge our support by the by-election results,” Xulu said.