Former President Jacob Zuma has reshuffled the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party’s top leadership, removing several senior figures as he strengthens his grip on the organisation.
Former Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe has been removed as the party’s First Deputy President and replaced by Zuma’s son, Duduzane Zuma. Tony Yengeni remains the party’s Second Deputy President.
Former Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko has also been relieved of his duties as National Chairperson, while Nomsa Dlamini has been removed as Deputy Secretary-General.
Known for making late-night leadership changes, Zuma did not provide specific reasons for the reshuffle, saying only that the changes were intended to strengthen the party.
In a statement issued during a media briefing on Tuesday evening, the MK Party thanked both Hlophe and Nhleko for their service.
“Following careful consideration and consultation, the President hereby relieves Mr Nkosinathi Nhleko of his responsibilities as National Chairperson of the MK Party with immediate effect. President Zuma expresses his sincere appreciation to Mr Nkosinathi Nhleko for his dedication, commitment and service to the Party during his tenure,” the statement read.
The party also confirmed Hlophe’s removal, thanking him for his contribution to the growth and development of the organisation.
Zuma also reinstated Sibonelo Nomvalo as Secretary-General and Brian Molefe as Treasurer-General. However, the party distanced itself from decisions taken by the pair during their previous tenure, particularly those involving financial commitments.
The MK Party stated that any contracts, obligations or financial liabilities entered into by members of the now-disbanded Strategic Presidential Team would not be recognised by the party and could leave those responsible personally liable.
The party also dissolved the Strategic Presidential Team established by Nomvalo and reinstated Zuma’s Presidential Task Team with immediate effect.
The latest leadership changes have fuelled speculation that former national spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela and Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla could be reinstated after the removal of leaders involved in their expulsion.
The reshuffle follows the recent resignation of former DA and ActionSA member Abel Tau, who said the MK Party no longer represented the principles that had attracted him to the organisation.