THE IFP leadership's sharp axe is working overtime these days. Mtubatuba municipality mayor Christopher George Swartz and eDumbe mayor Alson Mpiyakhe Hlatshwayo's political careers came to an abrupt end yesterday.

The two were not available for comment but IFP national organiser and chairperson of the political oversight committee Albert Mncwango confirmed the decision.

"Yes, it's true they have been recalled.

"This is part of the on-going programmes of action to revamp the IFP-led municipalities that are dysfunctional or where there are problems of service delivery."

But an insider told Sowetan: "It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see what's happening. All the people believed to be sympathisers of national chairperson Zanele Magwaza-Msibi, or those who have called for change, are shown the door."

On July 15 councillors from the Zululand district municipality were redeployed, while two exco members, including deputy mayor Vusimuzi Mbuyisa and Jeremiah Mavundla, were axed on Tuesday.

Last week the Women's Brigade members Bongekile Gwala and Angela Mthembu were dismissed, apparently for calling for change.

And on Monday, outspoken central chairperson Mzonjani Zulu was also expelled.