Mangosuthu Buthelezi said the final IFP rally showed the party had huge support in KZN.
Inkatha Freedom Party leader Mangosothu Buthelezi said on Wednesday, while the National Freedom Party had the right to join forces with the ANC this municipal election, by-elections would reflect the true voter base.
The NFP was formed by members who split from the IFP.
Buthelezi made the statements after voting at the Buthelezi Traditional Court in Ulundi on Wednesday. He was accompanied by his wife, Irene.
According to Buthelezi, the final IFP rally before the elections showed a lot of support for the party.
“I think that many people are seeing that the IFP is still doing the work it has always promised to work,” he said.
Buthelezi rejected rumours that he would fire staff at the Zululand District Municipality if the IFP took over.
“This is not true. By nature, I am not a person who seeks vengeance. As long as the staff have skills, I will not have a problem. However, if people are incompetent and put there because they are faithful members of the NFP, then of course they will have to make way for more competent people.”
Buthelezi added that he was committed to his people.
“We know our supporters and we are committed to them.”