By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has suspended deputy president Dr John Hlophe from all party positions, including his role as opposition leader in Parliament.
Fullview learnt that Hlophe’s suspension comes after he removed Colleen Makhubele as chief whip without authorization from party leadership.
Makhubele was replaced by Des Van Rooyen.
In statement the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) said, upon His Excellency President Jacob Zuma’s arrival from a successful trip to Burkina Faso, His Excellency met with the party’s National officials and received the briefing about changes effected at the National Assembly without a collective consultation.
“The President has taken a decision to issue a precautionary suspension to the Party’s Deputy President and the Leader of the MK Party Parliament Caucus Dr. John Hlophe from both his leadership roles with immediate effect, pending a full investigation on his conduct,” the party said.
The decision has since been reversed and Van Royeen is now an ordinary member of parliament for the party.
“This decision is meant to affirm and send a strong message and the principle of collective leadership across all structures within the uMkhonto weSizwe Party. Consequently, the decision taken by Dr. Hlophe to remove Cde Collen Makhubele and appoint Cde Des Van Rooyen is therefore nullified,” the party added in the statement.
Furthermore, the party said its leadership remains firmly united and committed to upholding the principles of discipline, accountability and collective decision-making as enshrined in the party constitution.
“This decision should be viewed as a demonstration of the Party’s unwavering commitment to internal party discipline and collective leadership.”
The party is experiencing internal issues related to leadership, discipline, and direction, leading to suspensions and public criticism. It was formed in December 2023, has had seven secretaries-general, while Makhubele is the third chief whip.