IFP Deputy President Mzamo Buthelezi Dismisses Factional T-shirt Campaign Amid Growing Leadership Debate

IFP Deputy President Mzamo Buthelezi rejects "factional" T-shirts as party members debate leadership unity ahead of the next elective conference.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 28, 2026, 9:42 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from IOL

Social Media Imagery Sparks Factionalism Concerns

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) is currently navigating internal tensions following the circulation of unauthorized promotional regalia on social media. A white T-shirt featuring the face of Deputy President Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi and the inscription “SETHEMBE TRUST US” has triggered a debate among supporters regarding the party's future leadership. Although the clothing does not bear the official IFP logo or colors, its timing—ahead of the upcoming elective conference—has led some members to believe a faction is actively campaigning for Buthelezi to replace the current President, Velenkosini Hlabisa.

Internal Calls for Unified Leadership

The emergence of the T-shirts has prompted anonymous party leaders to call on Buthelezi to publicly distance himself from the campaign. Reports have surfaced of "regalia resistance" in districts such as Newcastle, Amajuba, and Ndwedwe, where some senior officials allegedly refuse to wear T-shirts featuring President Hlabisa’s face. According to an IFP member in good standing, Sandile Mdluli, these actions undermine the endorsement Hlabisa received from the late party founder, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. Mdluli has urged local councillors to respect the decisions of the 2019 conference to prevent a fracture within the organization.

Buthelezi’s Dismissal of "Cockeyed" Allegations

Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, who also serves as the Minister of Public Service and Administration, has reacted with disdain to the rumors. He clarified that his social media presence is strictly professional and focused on state matters, rather than party internal politics. "You can go to any printing shop and ask them to print your face... no one has control over that," Buthelezi stated, dismissing the creator of the T-shirt as someone looking to stir trouble. He characterized those entertaining the idea of a leadership split as suffering from "cockeyed syndrome," insisting that his relationship with President Hlabisa remains solid.