Celebrations have started in Nquthu were the IFP won 14 of the 17 wards. Supporters, clad in IFP regalia, are now in the streets of Nquthu, some holding a mock coffin draped in ANC colours.
The ANC won three wards – four less than it did in August 2016 after which the Council was never constituted following infighting and disruptions.
The IEC still has to determine the number of proportional representation seats that will constitute the rest of the 17 seats in the Council, according to a formula based on the number of votes each of the parties received.
It is a complicated process but analysts say this should not stop the IFP from being able to govern the Council ‘solo’.
It also means that the Umzinyathi District Municipality will also be ruled by the IFP following five years of ANC rule.
