By Celani Sikhakhane
- KZN Premier Thami Ntuli makes it clear he won’t run for IFP president in next year’s party elections.
- The IFP claims success in KZN’s coalition government and recent by-election victories.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has ended speculation about his future by saying he won’t run for the IFP presidency.
Speaking at an IFP media briefing in Durban on Thursday, Ntuli was firm about his position.
“At no point did I avail myself of any leadership position. As we speak we have the President, the Secretary General therefore I have no ambitions. I am not available,” says Ntuli.
The IFP will hold its national election conference next year after extending the current leadership’s term, which ended in October.
Ntuli praised the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), saying it brings people together in KZN.
He spoke about the recent taxi strike in Durban that left many commuters stranded. “We are particularly pleased that the protracted strike in the public transport sector has finally come to an end,” he says.
The strike ended after talks between taxi associations and the provincial government. Ntuli says the taxi industry is vital for moving people and helping the province’s economy.
He also supported the crackdown on illegal foreigners running spaza shops. “This initiative fulfils one of the promises we made in our manifesto ahead of the 2024 general elections,” he says.
The IFP provincial chairmani says the party had gone from running just two municipalities in 2011 to more than 25 now.
The party recently won by-elections in Mtubatuba, Phongolo, Nkandla, Mvoti and Newcastle.
Looking ahead to the 2026 local elections, the IFP held a planning meeting in Durban last month.
The party believes its “Trust Us” slogan and the legacy of its late founder Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi are helping them win more support.
Pictured above: KZN Premier Thami Ntuli says he is not available for the IFP Presidential race.
Source: X
