Jabulani Khumalo, the president of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKParty), has officially requested the removal of former president Jacob Zuma from the MKParty.
This request was formally submitted to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on April 9, 2024.
Khumalo’s letter to the IEC outlined a complex relationship with Zuma, who had been instrumental in the early stages of the party’s formation.
According to Khumalo, Zuma advised on the party’s naming, aligning it with the historical ANC legacy to enhance its public recognition.
Zuma even suggested naming it after the ANC’s armed wing, uMkhonto weSizwe, to resonate with the electorate.
Despite Zuma’s initial non-membership stance, he was a pivotal figure in raising R705,000 required for the party’s registration, leveraging his extensive political network.
Zuma’s engagement peaked when he publicly supported MKParty during a campaign, though he clarified his ongoing loyalty to the ANC.
However, the alliance soured dramatically on April 23, 2024, when Khumalo was informed of his dismissal as president by non-executive MKParty members, an action allegedly orchestrated by Zuma to usurp leadership.
This move by Zuma, according to Khumalo, not only violated the party’s constitutional process but also jeopardized its reputation and internal unity.
Khumalo’s allegations extend beyond mere political betrayal; he accuses Zuma of “fraudulent maneuvers” that positioned him at the helm of MKParty without due process.
The letter also highlighted concerns about potential post-election leadership changes speculated to involve opposition party members and even criticism from Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Zuma, adding personal strife to political controversy.
Khumalo has urged the IEC to swiftly mitigate further damage to MKParty’s integrity by removing Zuma from all official capacities within the party.
The interim executive committee is reportedly preparing to address these issues under party bylaws.
This conflict marks a significant chapter in the evolving narrative of South African politics, reflecting deep divisions within party lines and the enduring influence of established political figures.
The outcome of this dispute could have lasting implications for the credibility and stability of MKParty and the broader political landscape in South Africa.
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