The uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party has placed its Deputy President, John Hlophe, on temporary suspension. The directive was issued by party leader Jacob Zuma and took effect immediately, signaling escalating internal conflict within the newly formed political entity.
The suspension follows a key leadership change implemented by Hlophe: the removal of Chief Whip Collen Makhubele. Hlophe had replaced her with former Finance Minister Des van Rooyen. However, Zuma’s swift action suggests a direct challenge to Hlophe’s authority and decisions.
📉 Critics Allege Party Instability
The rapid shifts in leadership have fueled public criticism and media speculation about the MK Party’s stability. Many observers describe the party as increasingly divided and prone to internal upheaval. Critics argue that the events highlight a rigid power structure where alignment with party leader Jacob Zuma is paramount. The sentiment among some analysts is that deviations from Zuma’s stance are swiftly met with punitive action, leading to the perception that the party operates on the principle of: “align with uBaba Jacob Zuma, or face expulsion.“