IFP leader's bold election prediction

Election season is heating up — and IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa could be one of the key figures shaping what comes next. In this wide-ranging conversation, we discuss the latest polling, the IFP’s growing support in KwaZulu-Natal, the challenge from MK, and the coalition negotiations that could determine control of municipalities across the country. Hlabisa also explains why he believes the next local government elections could be a major turning point. We also go inside the GNU, as Hlabisa reflects on his experience serving in Cabinet, the realities of governing alongside political rivals, and what he thinks coalition government has taught South Africa so far. We unpack the crisis in local government, proposed reforms to municipalities and coalition rules, the future of the IFP after Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, and the party’s ambitions beyond KZN. 00:00 Introduction 01:49 Inside the GNU: Is it working? 05:33 The economy, jobs and service delivery 12:18 Hlabisa’s plan to reset local government 19:42 Why voters must demand change 21:52 Why coalition government is here to stay 28:24 New rules to stabilise coalitions 33:11 KZN politics: IFP, MK and the battle ahead 39:53 How post-election coalition negotiations could work 46:26 The IFP after Mangosuthu Buthelezi 53:10 The Zulu monarchy and politics 57:00 Final thoughts