By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Mbombela High Court has reinstated Mary Phadi as provincial convener of the Umkhonto WeSizwe (MK) Party and Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL).
Phadi, who is a renowned businesswoman and president of the Truckers Association of South Africa, was fired for mismanagement of funds and alleged assassination plot against her rival in the party.
In her court papers, Phadi said her removal was part of a coordinated effort by senior officials, including MK Party president Jacob Zuma, to sideline her. And to install former public protector and recent defector from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Busisiwe Mkhwebane.
Phadi was given just three days to resign, prompting her to submit a resignation letter. The letter was rejected by the party’s provincial executive committee on October 7, 2024.
On November 17, 2024, Mkhwebane, was appointed as the MK Party’s new provincial leader.
In its ruling, the court ordered her immediate reinstatement. This effectively invalidates Mkhwebane’s appointment as Mpumalanga convenor.
Phadi expressed her happiness about the court’s decision, calling the allegations propaganda meant to defame her.
“I’ll be reinstated as the provincial convener and party leader as ordered. It was propaganda, and it led to false headlines. There’s no case, and I was never arrested,” she said.
Phadi criticised the party for not following proper procedures and communicating her removal through a letter.
“We consulted them to engage with us, but they did not return. It’s obvious they had a mission. We are heading to 2026, aiming for victory.
MK party has been given 15 days to challenge the court’s decision. The publication attempted to contact the party and once comment has been received, the story will be updated.