A Zulu prince who is the grandson of a deceased IFP leader has left the party, claiming that his beliefs and those of his former party do not align.
A supporter of Prince Simakade Zulu in his ongoing legal battle with King Misuzulu for the Zulu throne, Prince Lungalomdeni Zulu says he has decided that leaving the Zulu nationalist party is the best course of action.
This is stated in a letter of resignation he sent to the leadership of the King Cetshwayo district, which includes Eshowe and the party in Eshowe, his hometown, on May 20.
Prince Lungalomndeni is the son of the late Prince Thibela Zulu, whose father was also Prince Gideon Zulu, who served as an MEC both in the erstwhile KwaZulu government and in the KwaZulu-Natal government in the dawn of democracy.
Fallout with senior IFP officials
“After much contemplation and with a heavy heart, I am writing to formally resign from my position as a member of the Inkatha Freedom Party and chairperson of youth ward 12 with immediate effect,” he wrote to the party’s leadership.
“My decision comes after careful reflection on the party’s direction, values, and my principles. Over time, I have come to believe that my vision and my political priorities no longer align with the party’s trajectory.
“I feel that it is in my best interest to step away and pursue a path that is more aligned with my values and the needs of those I represent.”
The reason for his departure, however, seems to be that he lost tenders in IFP-run municipalities after supporting Prince Simakade, and he had a public fallout and arguments with senior IFP leaders, including Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi.
Committed to serving the public
He, however, said he appreciates serving in the party.
“I want to express my gratitude to the party and its members for the opportunity to serve alongside them.
“It has been a privilege to work toward our shared goals and to contribute to our collective efforts.
“I remain committed to serving the public and will continue to advocate for policies that I believe are in the best interest of the people. Please consider this letter as my formal resignation from all party roles and affiliations.
“I wish the party continued success in its future endeavours, and I hope to see positive changes that will benefit our community and the nation at large.
“Thank you once again for the experiences and opportunities that I have had during my time as a member of the Inkatha Freedom Party,” he wrote.
