IFP keeps Buthelezi as leader

The Inkatha Freedom Party has retained doctor Mangusutho Buthelezi as its president. The decision was taken at a special conference at Umlazi in KwaZulu-Natal to address the IFP's lacklustre performance in the March local elections. Earlier Buthelezi had told the conference he was willing to resign. IFP secretary general Musa Zondi, who had been tipped as a likely successor to Buthelezi, said the party had maintained faith in its leader. On hearing about the renewed faith in him, Buthelezi said he remained a servant to his supporters and would do as they ask of him. The IFP is South Africa’s largest black opposition party. Buthelezi’s current term as leader ends in 2009.