The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has announced that its mayors will face a performance assessment within their first 100 days in office if elected. Party president Velenkosini Hlabisa stated that the party will deploy competent and capable individuals and require mayors to set out their priorities for the first 100 days from the day they take office. These commitments will form the basis of the party's assessment, guided by the five pillars of service delivery contained in the party's new manifesto.
The IFP unveiled its 2026 local government election manifesto at the Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu, reducing its previous 10-point commitment to five priorities. The commitments focus on creating jobs and growing local economies, delivering basic services and maintaining infrastructure, working with traditional and Khoi-San leadership, fighting corruption and improving financial management, and supporting women, youth, and persons with disabilities. Hlabisa said the party planned to assess these commitments annually and require its mayors to sign performance contracts once new councils have been established.
The priorities for IFP-run municipalities will differ depending on their challenges, with water and infrastructure among the issues requiring attention. Hlabisa noted that municipalities differ from one another, with some having done well in terms of electricity but lacking in water provision. The party wants municipalities to deal with infrastructure problems before they become crises, including setting a timeframe for fixing potholes. Hlabisa described the approach as "maintenance before crisis."
The IFP has assessed the 19 municipalities it governs, as well as municipalities where it leads coalitions, against commitments made in its 2021 manifesto. The assessment showed progress in areas including electricity, education, water provision, and cooperation with traditional leaders, although financial constraints remained a challenge. Hlabisa cited uMhlathuze, Umlalazi, and King Cetshwayo district as municipalities that had achieved clean audits.
Hlabisa pointed to uMzinyathi district, where the IFP had acted on a leadership problem by removing and redeploying the mayor two years ago, and the municipality subsequently adopted a funded budget. He emphasized that adopting a funded budget means commitments are true because the municipality is committing to what it will do. The IFP was also monitoring municipalities facing challenges with spending Municipal Infrastructure Grant allocations and would provide support with capacity and planning.
Hlabisa stated that municipalities should not become permanently dependent on water tankers, arguing that greater investment in infrastructure is needed. The party will require mayors to sign performance contracts once new councils have been established, with the first round of signings expected to take place at the beginning of next year. This approach aims to ensure accountability and effective service delivery.
The IFP's new approach to municipal governance is part of its efforts to improve service delivery and address the challenges facing municipalities in South Africa. By prioritizing maintenance and infrastructure, the party aims to make a positive impact on the lives of citizens. The party's 2026 local government election manifesto reflects its commitment to creating jobs, delivering basic services, and supporting vulnerable groups.
Key points
- IFP mayors will face a 100-day performance test if elected.
- The party's priorities for municipalities include delivering basic services and maintaining infrastructure.
- The IFP will require mayors to sign performance contracts once new councils have been established.
