Buthelezi to take up advisory role in IFP
Mangosuthu Buthelezi says he will make himself available to assist the IFP even after he steps down as party leader.
Buthelezi had been addressing reporters in Durban yesterday.
"While I will no longer be at the helm or be as active as I have been in the last more than 40 years, I will submit in all things to the new leadership moving forward, Mr. Hlabisa, if he is elected as our leader. I'm prepared to assist the IFP in as far as possible to ensure that it can play the important role it has played for more than 40 years and continues to play today, " he says.
The 89-year-old has led the IFP since its inception in 1975. The party's Extended National Council has nominated current Hlabisa mayor, Velenkosi Hlabisa to stand for the presidency at their next elective conference - expected to take place in December.
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Hlabisa has accepted the nomination - saying Buthelezi remains the captain of the ship.
"The party is still under the leadership of His Excellency under whom we play our role. When the conference sits - it will be only after the conference that a new leader will emerge. Now I have accepted the nomination to make my contribution for the IFP as well as for our country," he says.