The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) is a political party in South Africa, founded in 1975 by Mangosuthu Buthelezi. It emerged as a cultural and political movement primarily representing the interests of the Zulu people. The IFP has historically been associated with the struggle against apartheid and has participated in various political processes in South Africa. The party gained prominence during the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly during the violent conflicts between the IFP and the African National Congress (ANC). Although the IFP has faced challenges in recent years, it remains an important player in South African politics, especially in the KwaZulu-Natal province.