18th August 2008

The Pretoria IFP yesterday held a successful conference to kick-off its election campaign. Almost one hundred enthusiastic IFP officials met to strategise and were addressed by the IFP Gauteng Chairperson, Mr Petros Sithole. 

Mr Sithole said: "I am highly impressed by the Pretoria IFP's fighting spirit and enthusiasm ahead of next year's election. Recently 45 ANC members joined the IFP. From the feedback given to us by our supporters it is clear that the great division in the ANC between the Mbeki and Zuma camps is driving ANC supporters away from the party. They are losing faith in the ruling party.  

"In addition, ANC supporters now realise that the ANC, has over the past 15 years, failed dismally to combat crime, corruption, poverty, unemployment and HIV/AIDS. Not to mention the ANC's failure to deliver essential services to the people. It is clear that the time has arrived for a new government." 

The Tshwane district IFP chairperson, Alwin Madela, was equally thrilled with the conference. He said people simply no longer trust the ANC.  

"Nothing has come from the ANC promises of delivery and effective government. Just broken promises," said Mr Madela. 

Mr Koos van der Merwe, IFP Chief Whip, who also spoke at the conference, said the IFP's spectacular growth in Tshwane is going to be a big surprise for everyone in next year's election.  

"Voters are desperate for change," commented Mr van der Merwe said. "They want results. And they are not getting it from the ANC after 15 years in government," concluded Mr van der Merwe.