The leader of South Africa's Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), VELENKOSINI HLABISA says his party has agreed to form part of a government of national unity that includes the African National Congress (ANC) and the biggest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA).

HLABISA told newsmen at a media briefing in Durban that the only options were to become part of the government, or part of the opposition.

According to him, the people of South Africa who voted said that political parties must find a common ground.

This is the first official indication that a government of national unity has been agreed, although the DA and ANC have not yet commented.

The new parliament is due to be sworn in tomorrow, when it is expected to elect a president.