Analyst: Parties centred on individuals often seal their own fate
A political analyst feels parties that centre their existence around an individual often seal their fate when that person steps down.
Protas Madlala has been commenting after Mangosuthu Buthelezi announced he will step down after the IFP's next elective conference.
Buthelezi has been at the helm of the IFP since its inception in 1975. Current Hlabisa mayor, Velenkosi Hlabisa has been nominated by the party's leadership to take over the reigns.
ALSO READ: Buthelezi to take up advisory role in IFP
Madlala says that whilst the IFP has embraced change, it could have come too late, as the party has only ever known one leader.
"There are many political parties like the IFP in South Africa - for example, like the UDM, ACDP and even the EFF, for that matter - who are taking a huge risk of creating their foundation around the personality of a charismatic person. Unfortunately, when that person is no longer around the organisation will tend to follow in the shadow of that person," he said.
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