Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader Velenkosini Hlabisa has denied that there is crisis within the party, and assured that the IFP is “solid, strong, and united”.

Hlabisa was speaking on Tuesday during a press conference where he allayed any fears of tension in the party, following reports that some members had planned a motion of confidence against him.

Last month, IFP secretary-general Siphosethu Ngcobo received a request from 20 petitioners for a special urgent sitting of the IFP National Council.

The IFP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) considered the matter and resolved not to accede to the request.

Hlabisa said the National Council members were called to appear before the NEC, on Monday, to engage colleagues on their petition.

Furthermore, two signatories withdrew their signatures, thus the petition no longer held constitutional muster in terms of the IFP constitution, which prescribes a minimum of 20 signatures.

“We had a fruitful and constructive engagement with the colleagues, who went as far as offering an apology to the Party for the confusion and public anxiety the petition has caused. Whilst the IFP constitution provides for petitions, it must be understood that this is an exceptional measure. The colleagues have categorically distanced themselves from the speculation that suggested that through their petition they would table a motion-of-no-confidence in the IFP president,” said Hlabisa.

He reiterated that the IFP will not be distracted by the “desperate mischief” of its detractors who seek to sow divisions in the party through speculation or rumour mongering.

The IFP leader said the National Council members indicated that they wanted the party to finalise the issue of party regalia and branding relating to the use of the face of the IFP founder and president emeritus, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.

There have been reports that the party is divided on whether the party should use Hlabisa or Buthelezi’s face as preparations for the 2024 elections gain traction in the country. 

Hlabisa has said contrary to speculation, the IFP has emerged out of Monday’s NEC meeting stronger in its unity and has full confidence in the leadership collective of the NEC and National Council.

“We are a united leadership at work. Any speculation to the contrary is wishful thinking by our opponents. The country is in trouble on every front: from poverty, to crime, to corruption, to unemployment, to lack of service delivery. Therefore, the IFP, as an alternative to those in power, is firmly focused on securing a decisive election victory in 2024,” added Hlabisa.