The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK Party) is embroiled in a deepening internal crisis, with key members facing arrests, explosive factional battles over leadership, and growing dissent over its direction. The turmoil has raised serious questions about the party’s stability just a year after becoming South Africa’s official opposition.
Arrests and Allegations of Political Witch Hunts
The party has condemned the recent arrests of MPs Brian Molefe and Siyabonga Gama as a “politically motivated witch hunt” within Parliament. Meanwhile, spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela has denied being formally removed as an MP, despite leaked letters suggesting otherwise.
Calls are mounting for the removal of Chief Whip Colleen Makhubele, further destabilizing the party’s parliamentary leadership. These developments come amid reports that Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu is exploring the formation of a new political party, signaling a major fracture within the MK ranks.
Former Organizer Slams Party’s “Family Enterprise” Structure
In an explosive interview, former MK Party national organizer McDonald Mathabe, who recently resigned, painted a damning picture of the party’s leadership.
“The MK Party is no longer about the people—it’s a family enterprise,” Mathabe said. He alleged that key positions in Parliament and provincial legislatures had been filled with Jacob Zuma’s relatives and close associates, sidelining grassroots members.
Mathabe also criticized the party’s lack of democratic structures, stating, “An organization without elected branches, regions, or a national conference is destined for chaos.” He claimed that Zuma operates as the “alpha and omega” of the party, making unilateral decisions without member input.
Failed Opposition Role and ANC Reconciliation Hopes
Mathabe argued that the MK Party has failed in its role as the official opposition, accusing its MPs of infighting and poor parliamentary performance. “The EFF is doing far better, despite having fewer seats,” he said.
He also revealed that the MK Party was initially intended as a temporary platform to pressure the ANC into reforms, with plans for eventual reconciliation. However, he claimed Zuma’s personal feud with President Cyril Ramaphosa derailed this strategy, leading to the current dysfunction.
Shivambu’s New Party and Accusations of Opportunism
Mathabe dismissed Floyd Shivambu’s reported moves to form a new party, “Mayu,” as deceptive, stating that Shivambu had opposed the MK Party’s formation and was now capitalizing on its collapse.
MK Party’s Response Pending
The MK Party declined to comment during the interview but is expected to address the allegations in a press briefing later today, featuring Deputy President Danisa Zulu and Chief Whip Colleen Makhubele.
As the crisis deepens, analysts warn that the MK Party risks losing credibility among its voter base, with internal divisions threatening its future as a political force.