The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has officially named Deputy Transport Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa as its mayoral candidate for the eThekwini Metro, setting the stage for a fiercely contested local government election on 4 November 2026. The announcement was made by IFP president Velenkosini Hlabisa at a media briefing in Durban on Monday, 31 August, where he unveiled a “two-horns” ticket that pairs Hlengwa with Sizwe “Mavava” Sikhakhane as the deputy mayoral candidate.
Hlengwa, who has served as Deputy Minister of Transport since 2019 and is a long-standing IFP parliamentarian, brings both national government experience and deep roots in KwaZulu-Natal politics to the campaign. His selection signals the IFP’s ambition to challenge the African National Congress’s dominance in the eThekwini Metro, which has been plagued by service delivery failures, infrastructure decay, and financial mismanagement in recent years.
Hlabisa described the ticket as a “formidable team” capable of restoring dignity and efficiency to the city. “Mkhuleko Hlengwa is a tested leader who understands the complexities of governance and the urgency of service delivery. Alongside Sizwe Sikhakhane, they represent a new beginning for eThekwini,” Hlabisa said.
The IFP’s campaign is expected to focus on fixing the city’s water and electricity crises, improving waste management, and rooting out corruption in municipal procurement. Hlengwa, in his acceptance speech, pledged to lead a clean, responsive, and accountable administration if elected. “The people of eThekwini deserve better than broken promises and decaying infrastructure,” he said. “We are ready to serve.”
The announcement has injected fresh energy into the IFP’s campaign, with party supporters expressing optimism about the candidate’s chances. However, the ANC, the EFF, and other opposition parties are also gearing up for a tough contest, making the battle for eThekwini one of the most closely watched races in the country. For Hlengwa and the IFP, the road to victory will require not only a strong message but also the ability to convert frustration into votes.
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