IFP celebrates its 50th anniversary in Soweto
Thousands of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) members from different parts of South Africa gathered at the Jabulani Amphitheatre in Soweto on Saturday, October 19, to celebrate the party’s Golden Jubilee.
Founded on 21 March 1975 at KwaNzimela in Melmoth, KwaZulu-Natal, by the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the IFP began as a cultural movement and evolved into one of South Africa’s most influential political parties.
Prince Buthelezi, who led the Party for more than four decades, stepped down in 2019 after a lifetime dedicated to service, leadership, and the advancement of South Africa’s democracy.
Addressing thousands of party supporters who came out in big numbers to celebrate the party’s 50th year anniversary, President Velenkosini Hlabisa (also Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs) stated that the Soweto celebration holds deep historical significance for the IFP, as the Jabulani Amphitheatre is a venue where Prince Buthelezi would frequently address the public during the liberation struggle—offering guidance and warning of the challenges facing the nation.
“The IFP has demonstrated that over 50 years, it still remains relevant, it still remains the voice of the people. There is no political party that was founded and lived for 50 years in SA and still remains relevant,” says Hlabisa.
He added that the party has completed 50 years in the political arena of the Country with the help of the general public and dedicated party members.
Hlabisa assured party faithful members that the IFP is still very much alive and well.
Party leaders also used the celebration for a launch of the party’s election campaign in the province, urging residents to “choose real change, honest leadership and a government that truly listens and responds.
Among the speakers was MEC for e-Government in Gauteng, Bonginkosi Dlamini and City of Joburg Housing MMC, Mlungisi Mabaso.
This commemoration offered an opportunity to reflect on the IFP’s 50-year journey of resilience, service, and integrity, while reaffirming the Party’s ongoing commitment to building a just, united, and prosperous South Africa for all.
