The Inkatha Freedom Fighters (IFP) said on Thursday it distanced itself from “political gamesmanship”, and said it will engage the National Freedom Party (NFP) after the latter announced it was pulling out of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU).

The IFP is seeking a meeting to understand better the NFP’s concern as it noted speculation and commentary suggesting uncertainty in the GPU including claims about the possible withdrawal of partners.

“Let us be clear: such narratives are misinformed, misguided, and risk undermining public confidence in a government that is working to stabilise institutions and restore credibility,” explained IFP National Media and Communications Officer Fanele Mhlongo.

Mhlongo said the IFP have not been officially informed of the NFP’s decision to leave the GPU.

“… and in light of their unfolding internal processes, including disciplinary matters, we will await the outcomes,” he added.

He pointed out that the party’s NEC has directed that the GPU partners, including the NFP, must be engaged to ensure stability, good governance and service delivery in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

He highlighted that these engagements by the party are currently underway.

Mhlongo affirmed the IFP’s position that the NFP is “fairly and adequately” represented in the GPU.

The IFP reaffirmed its own commitment to the GPU, saying it believes cooperation across political lines is not a weakness of democracy, but one of its greatest strengths.

The GPU represents an opportunity to demonstrate that diverse political traditions can work together in the public interest, guided by the Constitution, accountability to the Legislature, and responsiveness to communities, Mhlongo said.

He highlighted that the party’s participation in the GPU is rooted in tangible outcomes.

“Stability must translate into improved service delivery wherein we have functioning hospitals and clinics, safer communities, reliable transport and infrastructure, clean governance in municipalities, and economic recovery that creates jobs,” he said.

The IFP called on all partners in the GPU to recommit themselves to the founding principles of the coalition and stressed the need for dialogue, discipline, and adherence to agreed processes.

“… and not through public posturing or destabilisation which plays into the hands of the uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MKP), which does not have the interests of the people of KZN at heart,” the party said.

The IFP rejected what it said was desperate efforts by the MKP, with its motion of no confidence in KZN Premier Thami Ntuli.

“This motion and its accompanying violence and threats of instability and Gender Based Violence have no place in KZN, South Africa or anywhere else in the world.”