The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) is grappling with internal divisions over a potential alliance with the MK party, led by former President Jacob Zuma. This development comes as a surprise, given Zuma’s history with the IFP.
In the 1990s, Zuma played a significant role in bringing peace between the African National Congress (ANC) and the IFP in KwaZulu-Natal, a region plagued by high levels of political violence at the time. His efforts helped to reduce tensions and promote reconciliation between the two parties.
However, fast-forward to the present, and the IFP is now divided over a potential coalition with Zuma’s MK party. According to an inside source, IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa and Provincial Chair Thami Ntuli are at odds over the party’s future direction. Hlabisa favors a coalition with the ANC and the Democratic Alliance (DA), while Ntuli advocates for a partnership with the MK party.
The situation is further complicated by open support for the MK party from some IFP members, who have publicly expressed their backing on social media. This has led to fears of a significant split within the IFP, with some members opposing a coalition with the ANC or DA, viewing them as enemies.
The IFP currently holds 15 seats in the KZN legislature, with the MK party holding 37 seats. A coalition between the two parties would secure a majority with 52 seats, making it a formidable force in the province. The party’s national leadership is expected to meet soon to resolve the impasse and determine the party’s future in the region.
