IFP Calls for Postponement of Local Government Elections

By: Zilungile Mkhize

The IFP has joined calls for the postponement of the upcoming Local Government Elections until May 2022.

The party believes this brief postponement will provide sufficient opportunity for all parties involved to make the necessary preparations.

Local government elections are expected to be held in November this year.

IFP spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa says the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the country not being ready for the elections, adding that political parties have not had a proper chance to campaign..

Hlengwa says they do not, however, support the extended postponement and proposed amalgamation of the LGE, Provincial and the National Elections until 2024, as has been suggested by other parties.

The roles and functions of these three spheres of government are vastly different, and it will also dilute campaigning.

The shorter postponement, until May 2022, will ensure that no amendment to the Constitution is required.