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The Inkatha Freedom Party extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of one of the three individuals who were swept away by floodwaters in the New Hanover area under the uMshwathi Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal. We remain hopeful that Search and Rescue teams will successfully locate the two other individuals who are still missing following the devastating floods.

We sympathise deeply with families whose homes have been severely damaged, as well as those affected by the destruction of road infrastructure, including bridges. We call on government to act urgently and provide the necessary support to families who have lost their hard-earned belongings in this tragedy.

The IFP appreciates the swift response by the KZN MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Honourable Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, who has activated a multi-sectoral relief plan to provide immediate humanitarian assistance. This includes the provision of essential supplies to affected households, coordination of short-term housing solutions for displaced families in collaboration with line departments, and close cooperation with the uMshwathi Local Municipality to ensure that urgent needs are met.

As the province enters the heavy rain season, we urge communities—particularly those living in low-lying areas—to remain vigilant. We further caution residents not to cross flooded or low-lying bridges and to adhere strictly to weather alerts issued by the South African Weather Service.

We extend our sincere gratitude to neighbours who have opened their homes to those left destitute. We also acknowledge and appreciate the dedication of the Search and Rescue teams who continue to work tirelessly on the ground to locate the missing individuals.

Issued by IFP National Spokesperson Hon. Mkhuleko Hlengwa