Jacob Zuma has dissolved the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party’s Presidential Task Team, established a new Strategic Presidential Team as the party’s highest authority, and assumed direct control of all party finances, following allegations of financial mismanagement. Zuma also appointed his son, Duduzane Zuma, as the MK Party’s first deputy president, cementing his position as the central figure directing the party’s structure and operations.

Leadership Overhaul And Centralisation

In July 2026, Zuma disbanded the existing Presidential Task Team and replaced it with the Strategic Presidential Team, citing the need for decisive, centralised decision-making. According to Zuma, “I did say from the beginning that I do not want any people to be elected because it is a problem. But I left it because the comrades said, ‘Let’s do it’. Now the problem that I was trying to avoid is upon us.” He added that his approach is based on his personal familiarity with potential leaders, emphasising direct appointments over elections.

This move follows Zuma’s expulsion from the ANC in July 2024 for his high-profile campaign for the MK Party. After being confirmed as official leader of the MK Party in April 2024, Zuma has overseen a rapid restructuring of the party’s internal leadership and accountability systems.

Financial Oversight And Political Context

In July 2026, amid allegations of missing funds within the MK Party, Zuma revoked the banking powers of all party officials and personally assumed control of party finances. This step was framed as necessary to address concerns regarding financial management and ensure party resources serve its members, according to sources in the party leadership.

Andile Mngxitama, a prominent supporter, attributed recent leadership tensions to “the challenge of counter-revolution” faced by revolutionary movements, stating, “the ructions inside uMkhonto weSizwe now is an attempt by our political enemies to try to weaken the big momentum uMkhonto weSizwe is coming with.” The appointment of Duduzane Zuma as first deputy president in August 2026 further consolidates control within the Zuma family, reflecting a strategy that prioritises loyalty and central authority as the party prepares for future electoral contests.

Further developments are expected as the new Strategic Presidential Team establishes its mandate and addresses ongoing internal and public concerns about the party’s governance and credibility.