The Inkatha Freedom Fighters (IFP) has slammed reports circulating from an unofficial news source, that the party has closed the door on certain political parties, as it embarks on coalition talks.

After losing its majority share in last week’s election, the ruling African National Congress has begun closed-door negotiations with its political opponents to begin talks about forming a coalition government.

On Sunday, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) announced that elections were “free and fair” but with no single party gaining an outright majority.

IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said that it was regrettable that fake news would be circulating about the IFP not wanting to enter into coalitions with certain parties, after the party issued a formal statement on its approach to coalition talks on Monday morning.

“Our statement affirmed that the IFP remains open to engaging all political players,” he said.

IFP treasurer-general Narend Singh said that the report was a gross misinterpretation of statements he made on live TV on Sunday evening.

The IFP pleaded with the media and other observers not to jump the gun, or to make “unsubstantiated” conclusions, but to wait for the IFP to formally communicate its next steps.

“…calmness and maturity will be needed from all of us in order to reach the best possible outcome for South Africa and its people,” said Hlengwa.