By Celani Sikhakhane
IFP supporters eagerly anticipated the manifesto launch at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with many choosing to camp outside the gates from Friday to be there for Sunday’s event.
Those who camped outside the stadium told Scrolla.Africa that they had come from the far north of KwaZulu-Natal, in remote rural areas near the borders of eSwatini and Mozambique.
Thenjiwe Majozi from Manguzi said that they arrived at 4am on Saturday to wait for the gates to be opened.
“We left our homes on Friday to make sure that when the gates open we could be the first to enter the stadium. Our aim is to hear President Velenkosini Hlabisa tell us what the IFP is going to do for us in terms of employment and water shortages,” said Thenjiwe.
Cebo Mhlungu from Ncotshane area in Pongola said that their biggest aim is also to celebrate the life of the late IFP founder Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
“We are here to celebrate the life of our founder Prince Buthelezi. Shenge did a lot for us and that is why today we believe that this is also a befitting day to remember him while our President Hlabisa delivers the party’s manifesto,” said Mhlungu.
The IFP manifesto launch is held at the stadium named after the late SACP Secretary Moses Mabhida.
Today marks the 38th year commemoration of his life since his passing in March 1985.
Some leaders in IFP structures are said to be planning to block people attending from leaving the stadium to enjoy the Durban beaches.
From as early as 8am, a huge line up of musicians started entertaining the crowd, with more crowd pullers being introduced as the festive atmosphere was building up.
The main artist is expected to be Mlungisi Ndlovu popularly known as Gatsheni whose single Hit after Hit has become a national anthem.
The IFP being the biggest Zulu traditionalist and cultural organisation in SA politics, will also be joined by maskandi artists and various traditional musicians.
Various groups of amabutho from different regions performed traditional songs and dances on the pitch to celebrate the memory of the late traditional prime minister of the Zulu, Inkosi Buthelezi of KwaPhindangene.
Pictures above: IFP leadership at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Image source:Supplied
