IFP names Mkhuleko Hlengwa as eThekwini mayoral candidate

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has announced three candidates for key positions in KwaZulu-Natal's local government elections set for 2026. Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa has been chosen as the party's eThekwini mayoral candidate. The IFP president, Velenkosini Hlabisa, made the announcement during a briefing on Monday, also naming Sizwe "Mavava" Sikhakhane as the party's deputy mayoral candidate for eThekwini.

Councillor Xolani Ngwezi was selected as the IFP's mayoral candidate for the City of uMhlathuze. Hlabisa explained that the party was taking a distinct approach by selecting both mayoral and deputy mayoral candidates for eThekwini. Hlengwa boasts extensive experience in government, public leadership, and the IFP, having previously served as national chairperson of the IFP Youth Brigade and as a member of the National Assembly since 2012.

During his tenure in Parliament, he chaired the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa), a vital parliamentary oversight committee. Following the 2024 general election, he was appointed as Deputy Minister of Transport. Additionally, Hlengwa is an alumnus of the University of South Africa and serves as an IFP spokesperson. Hlabisa expressed confidence that Hlengwa's experience and understanding of public administration would enable him to lead the IFP's campaign for effective, accountable, and people-centered governance in eThekwini.

Sikhakhane, Hlengwa's deputy mayoral candidate, is recognized for his leadership and entrepreneurial background, having previously served as chairperson of the IFP Youth Brigade in eThekwini from 2006 to 2010. He is also a successful businessman in the city. Hlabisa highlighted that Ngwezi, named as the IFP's mayoral candidate for uMhlathuze, possesses experience in both local and national government, including serving as a chief whip in the National Assembly.

Ngwezi has served on committees related to Water and Sanitation and Basic Education for four consecutive terms. Under his leadership, the City of uMhlathuze maintained four consecutive clean audit outcomes from the Auditor-General. Hlabisa emphasized that all three candidates, who are under 45, represent the party's commitment to empowering the youth in leadership roles.

He stated that the IFP is preparing for the local government elections and has strengthened its structures nationwide, with preparation at the constituency level. The IFP aims to focus on job creation, service delivery, clean governance, safe communities, effective municipalities, and opportunities for young people during the upcoming 2026 elections.