South Africa’s Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) is gearing up to potentially lead a coalition government if the ruling African National Congress (ANC) loses its majority in the upcoming national elections. According to the IFP leader, Velenkosini Hlabisa, they are open to forming a coalition without the ANC, should it fail to secure over 50% of the votes on May 29..
Why It Matters
Recent polls indicate that the ANC may fall short of its usual majority, garnering between 40-50% of the vote. This outcome would force the ANC to seek partnerships with other parties to retain power after three decades in office. While analysts have earmarked the IFP as a probable ally due to its conservative stance and strong Zulu support base, Hlabisa has expressed reservations about aligning with the ANC, citing its perceived failures in governance.
What They Are Saying
Hlabisa criticized the ANC, accusing it of damaging the country and stated that rebuilding South Africa might be hindered by partnering with a party that, in his view, contributed to its downfall. He emphasized the IFP’s willingness to explore alternative alliances before considering any deal with the ANC.
“The ANC has destroyed our country. If you want to rebuild South Africa, it could be a hard thing to bring along a person who destroyed the country and whom people voted out,” Hlabisa told Reuters.
“We will explore other opportunities (first),” he said.
Currently holding 14 seats in the National Assembly, the IFP is part of the Multi-Party Charter, an opposition alliance aiming to challenge the ANC’s dominance. While the IFP’s chances of securing a majority remain slim, Hlabisa remains optimistic, indicating a readiness to collaborate with smaller parties and independent candidates if necessary.
Hlabisa stressed the importance of shared values and goals in forming a coalition, asserting that alliances should be based on common principles rather than mere political expediency. Conversely, the ANC has expressed skepticism about the viability of coalition governance, citing previous failures at the local level.
You don’t form a coalition for the sake of it. You form a coalition because you share common views, values, and direction,” he said. “If opposed, it can’t work.”
Bottom Line
As South Africa braces for a potentially transformative electoral outcome, the prospect of a coalition government underscores the evolving political landscape and the growing influence of smaller parties in shaping the country’s future.
