The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has ordered its eDumbe Constituency in northern KwaZulu-Natal to re-run the process to nominate a councillor candidate for Ward 5.
The decision follows a chaotic nomination process that was reportedly marred by ugly scenes, heated exchanges and vulgar language between two opposing factions.
The developments have raised concerns within the party over the conduct of the nomination process and the divisions that emerged between members.
Sources indicate that the IFP has now directed the eDumbe Constituency to start the process afresh, effectively setting aside the outcome of the previous nomination process.
The move is understood to be part of efforts to ensure that the candidate selection process is conducted in a manner that is acceptable to all concerned.
It is further understood that similar directives have been issued to IFP branches in uMtshezi, uMfolozi and Jozini, where nomination processes were also reportedly disrupted by internal disputes and chaos.
The developments come at a time when political parties are strengthening their structures and preparing for upcoming electoral contests, making the selection of credible ward candidates particularly important.
The IFP has yet to publicly provide detailed reasons for the directives or outline the dates for the re-run processes.
The party will now have to manage the fresh nominations while attempting to prevent a repeat of the scenes that previously brought the internal divisions into the spotlight.
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