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The IFP expresses its heartfelt appreciation to the IFP leadership and membership who have ensured that the 50th Anniversary Celebrations this past weekend were a resounding success.

On Friday, 21 March 2025 we retraced our steps to our birthplace, KwaNzimela in Melmoth, for a Thanksgiving Prayer Service.

We also paid our respects, alongside his family, to the late Archbishop Alphaeus Hamilton Zulu, who is laid to rest at KwaNzimela.

Archbishop Zulu presided as chairperson of the meeting at KwaNzimela where Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi founded the IFP on 21 March 1975.

On Sunday, 23 March 2025 we descended in our thousands to the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium in Ulundi for our celebratory rally.

The Golden Jubilee Celebrations have been a testament to the resilience, unity, and enduring legacy of the Inkatha Freedom Party. 

Over the past five decades, the IFP has remained steadfast in its commitment to serving the people of South Africa, upholding democratic values, and advocating for good governance, accountability, and development.

We are deeply moved by the unwavering support of our members, leaders, and communities who joined us in commemorating this historic milestone. The presence of thousands of supporters at the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium in Ulundi was a clear demonstration of the IFP’s continued relevance and the trust placed in us by the people of South Africa.

We further acknowledge the legacy of our founder, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi and we remain guided by the principles he championed: servant leadership, unity, and a commitment to progress.

As we celebrate our achievements, we also look to the future, reaffirming our dedication to empowering communities, fostering economic growth, and ensuring a just and prosperous South Africa.

The IFP also extends its appreciation to religious and traditional leaders, the diplomatic corps, leaders and representatives of other political parties, international organisations, business leaders, and members of civil society who attended the celebrations, reinforcing the party’s deep-rooted connection to the people it serves.

As the party, under the leadership of President Velenkosini Hlabisa MP, embarks on the next chapter of its journey we will continue to be the voice of the people, championing the values of integrity, accountability, and justice.

The Golden Jubilee is not just a celebration of our past, it is a renewed commitment to building a brighter future for all South Africans.

We also extend our well wishes for a speedy recovery to our Comrades from Gauteng who were injured in a bus accident on their way to Ulundi on Sunday morning.


Issued by IFP National Spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa