IFP celebrates victory in uMzumbe by-election for Ward 13
The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) in KwaZulu-Natal is walking tall after it retained Ward 13 in the by-election under uMzumbe Local Municipality, on the south coast.
The by-election followed the resignation of IFP councillor, Siyabonga Doncabe, who defected to uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) in November last year.
In a statement issued by the IFP Spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa on Thursday morning, he said this decisive victory underscores a broader political reality that communities are turning away from hollow promises and instead choosing principled, experienced, and service-driven leadership.
He stated that the outcome reflects the electorate’s confidence in the IFP’s disciplined governance approach, its commitment to accountability, and its unwavering focus on responsive service delivery.
“The party is proud to announce the election of Councillor Bakhanyile Shozi, who outperformed all contesting parties and reaffirmed the IFP’s firm mandate in the ward. The retention of Ward 13 further consolidates the IFP’s growing political strength in uMzumbe and across KwaZulu-Natal. It is a strong endorsement of the party’s values and a reaffirmation of its role as a credible and trusted alternative in local government,” read the statement
Hlengwa further stated that the result strengthens the leadership of IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa, whose consistent engagement with communities and steadfast commitment to ethical governance continue to resonate with voters who demand integrity, stability, and decisive leadership.
On Saturday, Hlabisa closed the party campaign by addressing their Siyanqoba (victory) rally, encouraging the Ward 13 community to defend the ward.
The win after Hlabisa’s address also strengthens his support within the party ahead of the elective conference, where he is expected to seek a second term.
The ward was also contested by the MKP, which fielded Sphephelo Shezi and there were fears that the MKP would walk away with the ward using Doncabe’s influence.
Buoyed by the victory, Hlengwa said the party will now focus on winning all four by-elections that are coming in a few weeks.
One is Ward 12 under AbaQulusi Local Municipality in Vryheid, Zululand, while the other three are in Nongoma Local Municipality, which became vacant after the resignation of NFP councillors.
In the 39-seat council, the IFP currently has 17 after retaining its ward, while its coalition partner, the ANC has 17. The MKP, ATM, Apemo have one apart, while the EFF has two.
This result will not cause any shift in the power balance. The IFP and the ANC comfortably govern the rural municipality with an overwhelming majority of 34 seats against five from the opposition.
willem.phungula@inl.co.za