By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
uMkhonto weSizwe Party has appointed Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi as its new Chief Whip in the National Assembly, replacing Colleen Makhubele.
Mokoena-Zondi, a former ANC Youth League leader, served the MK party in her role as Chief Whip of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).
The party says the move will strengthen caucus unity, promote women’s leadership, and consolidate parliamentary structures.
“Hon. Mokoena has served the party diligently in her role as Chief Whip of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) and has exceeded expectations in her capacity as Caretaker Chief Whip.”
“Her commitment, discipline and leadership have consistently advanced the organisational mandate of the MK Party,” said Nhlamulo Ndhlela, the party’s national spokesperson.
He added that the move “also reflects the movement’s steadfast dedication to women’s empowerment and its commitment to expressing transformative leadership through women at the highest levels of responsibility.”
“We are confident that Hon. Mokoena’s experience and steadfast leadership will consolidate the work of our parliamentary structures and advance the programme of the movement.”
Mokoena-Zondi was appointed despite having been found guilty of extorting salaries of at least three of the party’s parliamentary employees.
According to the internal report, Mokoena did not dispute the allegations or the evidence against her.
Ndhlela said he had not seen the report, but from what he knew, Mokoena had been cleared.
Party leader former president Jacob Zuma and the leadership collective have called for full support for Mokoena-Zondi in her new role.
In other changes within the party, Brian Molefe replaces Mpiyakhe Limba as treasurer general, while Vanessa Calvert’s suspension is lifted, reinstating her as chief of staff in the parliamentary caucus.