The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) in KwaZulu-Natal has won three highly-contested wards from the African National Congress (ANC) in the Newcastle municipality.

The IFP expressed excitement at Wednesday’s by-election results, which saw it win Wards 12, 19 and 23.

IFP KwaZulu-Natal chairperson and Premier candidate Thami Ntuli said that in Ward 12, the IFP received 1 973 votes compared with the ANC's 763 votes. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) received 94 votes, and Team Sugar South Africa (TSSA) managed 256 votes.

Ntuli said in Ward 19, the IFP garnered 1 566 votes, surpassing the ANC's 732 votes, the EFF received 65 votes, and TSSA bagged 137 votes.

Ward 23 saw the IFP secure 1 498 votes, while the ANC received 315 votes, the EFF received no votes, and TSSA received 213 votes.

“These results again underscore the significant growing support for the IFP. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our supporters, volunteers, and structures for their unwavering dedication to our party. In particular, the IFP would like to thank our provincial secretary, Mr. Xolani Dube, for his leadership during the campaign,” Ntuli said.

He noted that as the party approached the provincial and national general elections, the victories in the by-elections bolstered its confidence and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to delivering meaningful change for the people of KwaZulu-Natal.

“We are energised and determined to build on this momentum as we continue toward our goal of rebuilding KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa,” he said.

He noted that this “remarkable victory” was a testament to the lasting legacy of the party’s late founder and president Emeritus Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.

His commitment to the principles of honesty, humility and integrity continues to inspire the IFP as it strives to uphold his legacy, Ntuli said.

The IFP also extended its gratitude to Newcastle residents for trusting the party with their votes and for demonstrating their confidence in the IFP as the best alternative.

“We recognise and appreciate the immense responsibility placed upon us, and we are committed to serving our constituents with dedication and integrity,” said Ntuli.

The party called on its newly-elected councillors to emulate the exemplary leadership of Buthelezi, serving the people with dedication, honesty and humility.