The IFP has today welcomed the appointment by President Mbeki of Minister Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka as the new Deputy President replacing Mr Jacob Zuma.

The Secretary-General of the IFP, Rev Musa Zondi said: "We welcome the appointment of Minister Mlambo-Ngcuka as the country's new Deputy President. In appointing her the President has affirmed the women of our country and this sends a very powerful and positive signal especially to the girl-children in South Africa that there are no heights to which they cannot ascend."

Rev Zondi said that Mlambo-Ngcuka is a woman of notable abilities and thus would be bringing to office her unique capabilities, energy, enthusiasm and a burning desire to succeed in her new role just as she did in her ministerial responsibilities.

He concluded by assuring her of the IFP's support and said, "The IFP congratulates Minister Mlambo-Ngcuka for this lofty appointment and assures her of our support and wishes her well for the future."