IFP announces withdrawal of candidate for by-election

Addressing a joint media briefing yesterday the IFP and Team Sugar SA (TSSA), IFP’s Provincial Secretary and Newcastle Mayor Cllr, Xolani Dube, said  this was ‘the best decision because of their long-term partnership are both parties are acting in their best interest. ‘

The decision paves the way for the IFP’s coalition partner Team Sugar to retain the ward previously won by TSSA and left vacant by the passing of TSSA Councillor Nokusa Khumalo in November 2022.

“We were approached by Team Sugar and held a meeting between the two parties’ leadership to discuss the dynamics in the ward and have taken a decision to suspend all IFP activities in the ward in full support of Team Sugar,” said Dube.

Team Sugar SA president, Cllr Sugar Thwala, agreed saying this was a strategic decision taken to ensure they party keeps a good relation with the IFP.

“Politics is about numbers. Both parties want to be in government and therefore it is best to be united.”

He further denied the rumours that Team Sugar had been in talks with the ANC thereby putting pressure on the IFP to concede to their demands.

“There were no threats or demands. We talked to the IFP on principle and looking to the future we will gladly accept any request by IFP moving forward in any other by-elections.”

Mayor Dube has assured Ward 31 residents that he will be visiting the area as the mayor to ensure service delivery in that area.

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