By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party announced raft of leadership changes, including Dr John Hlophe removed as 1st Deputy President and replaced by Duduzane Zuma.
Zuma’s appointment places him directly below his father in the party hierarchy and is likely to intensify speculation that the latter is positioning his son as a future successor.
The announcement formed part of a broader reshuffle that saw several senior leaders removed or reassigned, while Zuma consolidated his authority over the party’s finances, administration and key organisational structures.
Hlophe will remain the party’s parliamentary leader in the National Assembly.
The changes were announced in Durban.
MK Party Spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu said, “The President calls upon all members, leaders and structures of the MK Party to unite behind these decisions and continue working together to build a disciplined, united and effective organisation in the service of the people of South Africa.”
The leadership changes extended well beyond the deputy presidency.
Former police minister Nathi Nhleko was removed as national chairperson and replaced by Reverend Mxolisi Phakathi. The party did not provide further details about Phakathi’s background.
Nomsa Dlamini was dismissed as deputy secretary-general, with Lindiwe Mtshali appointed in her place.
Willies Mchunu was appointed to the party’s presidency collective, where he will provide strategic and organisational advice on matters requiring presidential oversight.
In recent weeks, the MK party has been accused by supporters and critics alike of playing political musical chairs. Officials have been removed, redeployed or replaced as Zuma tightens his grip on the organisation’s structure.
According to a poll conducted on behalf of The Brenthurst Foundation in 2024, the MK party is the third-largest party in the country, with 15% in the polls, behind the African National Congress (ANC) at 39% and the Democratic Alliance (DA) at 27%.