Members of the media

Thank you for responding to our invitation at short notice. Your presence here is appreciated. 

Today marks an important moment for the Inkatha Freedom Party as we officially welcome Dr Bongani Mncwango, former Secretary-General of the Umkhonto weSizwe Party, into the IFP family. 

Dr Mncwango brings with him a wealth of leadership experience from both the private and public sectors. His distinguished career includes serving as Chief Executive Officer of Sanlam Healthcare, Chief Executive Officer of Netcare 911, and Managing Director of Bonitas Medical Fund Administration. His expertise and strategic insight will significantly strengthen the IFP as we intensify our mobilisation efforts ahead of the upcoming Local Government Elections. 

His decision to join the IFP is not incidental—it is a clear affirmation of the growing confidence in the IFP as a credible, principled, and values-driven political home. 

This is not an isolated development. Across the country, South Africans from diverse political backgrounds are choosing the IFP because they recognise in us a party rooted in integrity, constitutionalism, and ethical leadership. At a time of deep political uncertainty, the IFP stands firm as a beacon of stability, unity, and good governance. 

On Sunday, 12 April, I will continue this momentum by welcoming new members at Inkosi Langalibalele in Estcourt—further evidence that the IFP is expanding its footprint and reconnecting with communities on the ground. 

We enter this period with confidence and purpose. The IFP is fully in election mode. Our recent by-election successes reflect a growing trust from voters, and we are determined to build on this momentum. 

On 13 April, we will convene our National Council Meeting to chart a decisive path towards the Local Government Elections. This will be followed by an Extended National Council on 20 April, bringing together over 600 leaders from across the country to consolidate our strategy and readiness. 

We call on all South Africans to register to vote without delay. Do not wait for the voter registration weekend in June. Registration is already open online and at IEC offices. The future of our municipalities—and our country—depends on active citizen participation. 

To the members of the media, we thank you for your continued support and commitment to informing the public. 

The IFP is growing. The IFP is ready. And the IFP is the future. 

I thank you.