The MK Party, now spearheaded by former President Jacob Zuma, has ousted its founder and the individual responsible for its registration, Jabulani Khumalo, as part of a broader initiative aimed at rejuvenating its ranks. The dismissal also included four other members, marking a significant shift in the party’s internal dynamics.

Registration and Leadership Rift

On September 7, Jabulani Khumalo took the pivotal step of registering the MKP with the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), an action that has now become a focal point in the party’s recent controversies. The decision to expel Mr. Khumalo and his associates followed deliberations by the MK Party’s National Leadership Core, which cited the need to counteract what it perceives as efforts by external entities to disrupt the party’s stability.

Expulsion for “Purification”

The MK Party has publicly declared the ousting of members including Ray Khumalo, Bheki Manzini, Lebo Moepeng, and Rochelle Davidson. This move, the party asserts, is essential to cleanse itself of elements that might compromise its objective of securing a two-thirds majority in forthcoming elections.

In their statement, the party revealed that Mr. Zuma had originally tasked Jabulani Khumalo with the party’s registration. However, due to divergences in their visions for advancing the party’s revolutionary goals, Mr. Khumalo’s tenure was cut short.

“We urge all MK members to be disciplined and trust the leadership as we work towards gaining support for a campaign that will emancipate the downtrodden people of our country,”

the party stated, emphasizing a unified approach moving forward.

Internal Conflicts and Campaign Focus

The removal of Mr. Khumalo follows a period of internal strife within the party, including the imposition of a restraining order against him earlier this year. The MK Party clarified that Mr. Khumalo was never formally elected as president and accused him of failing to contribute to the party’s growth, which led to his replacement on the ballot paper by Mr. Zuma himself.

In anticipation of the upcoming elections on May 29, the MK Party is rallying its members to actively campaign and recruit in pursuit of a commanding electoral victory. This strategy underscores the party’s commitment to not just navigating its current leadership challenges but also strengthening its engagement with the electorate to address the needs of South Africa’s underrepresented communities.

MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela confirms that the party has expelled five of its leaders. This includes Jabulani Khumalo, whom former president Jacob Zuma requested that he register the party on his behalf.

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— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) April 26, 2024