Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader Dr Mangosuthu Buthelezi on Sunday announced that he would not be available for re-election in 2009.
Delivering his keynote address during the party’s general conference in Ulundi, Buthelezi unexpectedly told delegates that he would step down in 2009.
He said he had taken a decision after widespread reports which painted him as someone who was holding on to power.
”Based on the reports, I will not be available. I hope that this will put the matter to rest,” he said.
Buthelezi will however lead the party during the 2009 general elections which will take place early in the year. The IFP elective conference will take place in September 2009.
IFP national chairperson Zanele Magwaza-Msibi said that the party would persuade Buthelezi to make himself available for re-election in 2009. – Sapa