Launch of the IFP’s National Election Manifesto for the 2021 Local Government Elections
Welcoming Remarks by
The Hon. Inkosi Elphas Mzamo Buthelezi MP
Deputy President of the Inkatha Freedom Party
Greyville Racecourse, Durban: 30 September 2021
The President of the Inkatha Freedom Party, the Hon. Velenkosini Hlabisa MPL; our Party’s Founder and President Emeritus, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi MP; the leadership of the IFP at National, Provincial and Local level; distinguished guests and fellow patriots.
It is my distinct pleasure to welcome all those present as the IFP launches our 2021 Election Manifesto. We are honoured to have many notable dignitaries and friends with us this evening, to share this moment as the IFP answers South Africa’s cry.
Over 27 years, the IFP has campaigned in every single democratic election, and we remain a powerful presence in the political landscape. We have had some extraordinary campaigns. In 1994, we had just 8 days to campaign – and we won more than 2 million votes. But we have never been faced with the unusual circumstances created by a global pandemic.
Usually, a launch like this would see thousands of supporters travelling for days to converge in a stadium. Yet this evening we are limited by lockdown Regulations to 250 special guests. Fortunately, technology allows us to reach beyond these walls, so that this launch is in fact being watched by millions of South Africans, either in their homes or at viewing parties across the country.
I therefore want to say a special welcome to all who have joined us, wherever you are, because this evening we are sharing a watershed moment. This is not just about the IFP. It is about rescuing a country that is ravaged by crisis – economic, social and political. It’s about giving South Africa a real solution.
It just so happens that the messenger is also the message. The IFP is not merely bringing the solution. The IFP is the solution. This evening you will hear from our leadership the very good reasons to trust the IFP. You will hear about our track record and our legacy, about our clean administration and our trusted ability to get things done.
When we speak about these things, we are not making pie in the sky promises. The IFP doesn’t need to preface this launch with an apology for letting you down. We’ll leave that to the people who have let you down.
We also won’t promote our leaders at the expense of service delivery. When the IFP governs, our work does the talking. Instead of pouring funds into PR campaigns for our MMC or MEC, the IFP builds houses, fixes road and makes sure your needs are met.
This is who we are, and it’s why we have achieved so much as we work for you.
The IFP has what South Africa needs – a leadership of integrity.
While we have many friends with us this evening, we feel the absence of those who should be here, but who have been taken too soon. This past year has brought tremendous loss for many families, and the IFP family has not been spared. We think tonight of the Hon. Mr Simo Mfayela MP, the Hon. Mr Mthokozisi Nxumalo MP, Mr MZ Khumalo, Prince Vusumuzi Buthelezi, the Hon. Mrs Connie Zikalala and just recently Mr Themba Ngema who worked in our Head Office.
Many have fallen, but we will uphold their memory and continue their work. For there is much to be done in the service of South Africa. The IFP is committed to serving you, and we do it with integrity.
I welcome you all to join us.
