By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has removed its secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo less than two weeks before the Local Government Elections (LGE).
In a statement issued this evening, the party announced Lindiwe Mtshali as acting secretary-general, while spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu will take on additional responsibilities as deputy secretary-general.
The party accused Nomvalo of setting up high-level deployment committees without its leadership’s knowledge, while allegedly reshuffling its parliamentary caucus and administration without informing its leader Jacob Zuma, national officials or the party’s presidency collective.
It further listed concerns over the councillor selection process, internal factionalism, matters concerning dual remuneration and delays in campaign materials.
“These matters have raised concerns regarding organisational coordination, internal communication, accountability and adherence to established party procedures,” the party said.
“He is requested to cooperate fully with the relevant structures to ensure a smooth and orderly handover of his duties.”
The party said it acknowledged Nomvalo’s contribution to the organisation and wished him well.
According to the MK party’s constitution, Zuma, as party president, has the prerogative to hire and fire its leaders at will.
The party has also appointed five new parliamentary whips and removed several existing office-bearers in another shake-up of its parliamentary leadership.
The appointments of Emerald Kwenzokuhle Madlala, Sanele Gregory Mwali, Pinky Pearlgene Mngadi, Sihle Ngubane and Wesley Douglas took effect on 12 October.
Visvin Reddy, David Skosana, Zelna Saira Abader and Siyabonga Gama were removed from their positions as whips. Ngubane’s appointment marks his return to the role after previously serving as chief whip before his removal in August 2024.
The changes come under the leadership of chief whip Philasande Mkhize, who was appointed in June 2026 and is the latest in a succession of officials to occupy the position.
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%.