Buthelezi to retire as IFP leader

The Inkatha Freedom Party president Mangosuthu Buthelezi has announced he will step down as party leader.

Buthelezi will remain at the party's helm until its next elective conference - expected to be held in December.

The 89-year-old made the announcement in Durban yesterday.

Buthelezi - who has led the IFP since its inception in 1975 - says it is well-known that he wants to retire.

The Extended National Council has nominated Hlabisa mayor - Velenkosi Hlabisa to stand for the party's presidency.

"Hlabisa is a leader of intregrity who has served the party with destinction," Buthelezi tells reporters, "he has brought support from our structures and the proposal that he stand for leadership has eminated from accross the party. We therefore support his nomination."

Meanwhile, Hlabisa told reporters on Sunday he has accepted the nomination.

"I have accepted the nomination to stand as a candidate for the presidential position for the IFP when the National Elective Conference sits," says Hlabisa.

Other party members can still throw their names into the hat to contest for the position at the elective conference.