The Editor
The Sowetan / The Mercury / Daily News / Witness letters@sowetan.co.za
Dear Sir:
Recently, many newspapers, including the Sowetan, missed out on a great opportunity to cover an event of significance in the history of the IFP. We, the women of the IFP, led thousands of IFP supporters in a march in support of the IFP’s leadership and in support of unity within our Party.
This momentous event refuted the allegations that have been peddled by the rogue group within the IFP calling themselves the “Friends of VZ”, and some sections of the media, that the IFP leadership no longer enjoys the backing of its grassroots supporters. It further refuted the notion that the IFP is a dying party.
The IFP Women’s Brigade, back by the IFP Youth Brigade and all structures of the party proudly declared their support for one IFP, one vision, one mission and one future. We declared our unwavering commitment to the values and principles of the IFP and to the leadership of the IFP President. In addition, we committed ourselves to the fight to protect and preserve the legacy of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, which is also the legacy of the IFP.
Unfortunately, this newsworthy event went largely unnoticed. I know the saying goes that bad news sells, but it seems that some media institutions are hell-bent on portraying the IFP as a divided, struggling party and a party with no future and no hope. The march contradicted all these allegations and exposed the lies.
Despite the hostility in the media against the IFP, I can assure you that this march has served as a much needed boost for all our members, reigniting their enthusiasm that has been flagging as the illusion of defeat at the hands of the “Friends of VZ” gained momentum in the media. As we witnessed seas of IFP supporters descend on Durban, this march sent a clear message that the IFP is still a force to be reckoned with, ready to take on the 2011 elections.
Mrs kaMadlopa-Mtethwa
Secretary of the IFP Women’s Brigade