Ifp Marks 50th Anniversary With Rally In Ulundi

The Inkatha Freedom Party IFP will begin its 50th anniversary celebrations today with a visit to the grave of its founder, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, at KwaPhindangene Palace in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal.

More than 30 000 supporters are expected to attend the rally, which will take place at a stadium in Ulundi. The IFP was founded on March 21, 1975, initially as the Inkatha National Cultural Liberation Movement.

IFP National Spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said the event will serve as a moment of reflection on the party's history, achievements, and future plans ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

"It's a very critical moment of national reflection for the IFP. Also, our contribution in the liberation movement, fighting against oppression and apartheid and the injustice that South Africans had to endure-that is ultimately what we have been doing. It's a reflection of the journey of the 50 years of existence," Hlengwa says.

"We will also pay tribute to Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi before we commence. We will start at KwaPhindangene Homestead, where we will pay our respects at his resting place. We are giving our appreciation and reflection on the life of Prince Buthelezi," he added.