IFP increases footprint in uMkhanyakude District

THE IFP in uMhlabuyalingana under uMkhanyakude District snatched a ward from the ANC following Wednesday’s by-election.

The new Ward 15 Councillor is Kwenzile Bongumusa Mtembu.

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According to the IEC, 48.24% of the total votes were cast during Wednesday’s by-election compared to 55.66% during the 2021 municipal elections, with voter turnout at 59.80%.

The IFP garnered 1 327 votes, the ANC 834, uMkhonto Wesizwe Party 531 and the NFP 31.
The ward was contested by six candidates, namely Mtembu; Sithembiso Velenkosini Ngubane (ANC), Nkosinathi Sifiso Tembe (NFP), Promise Thandi Cele (Abahlali Base Mkhanyakude Movement), Nkosingiphile Sibusiso Sithole (African Economic Freedom) and Ntokozo Zimele Mabuza (MKP).

The ward was previously represented by the ANC and became vacant as a result of former councillor Gidla Mthethwa’s death.

IFP uMkhanyakude District Secretary Sihle Ndlovu said the party worked hard to claim the ward from the ANC.

“We took the decision that when we go to by-elections, we will not sleep but will go out to remind people of the party’s track record,” said Ndlovu.

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