Political Turmoil Rocks MK Party as Calls Mount for Chief Whip’s Removal

MK Party is embroiled in internal strife as a faction of MPs demands the removal of chief whip Colleen Makhubele, citing concerns over her leadership style and ideological stance.

The party, which has rapidly ascended as the official opposition, now faces a deepening crisis marked by accusations of autocratic decision-making and poor consultation within its ranks. A letter circulated by MPs backed by deputy party president John Hlophe accuses Makhubele of fostering division and ignoring party consensus. The group further alleges that Makhubele’s perceived support for Israel is out of step with the party’s broader ideological position.

In an unusual development, Hlophe also criticized prominent party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela for allegedly insulting Makhubele by calling her a “political novice.” The deputy president’s letter to former president Jacob Zuma also claims that Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Sambudla-Zuma, created disruption and disrespect during caucus meetings, further complicating internal dynamics.

However, Ndhlela has publicly denied any conspiracy or dysfunction within the caucus. Speaking to TimesLive, he affirmed that Makhubele remains the legitimate chief whip with full backing from the party’s leadership. He dismissed the circulated letters as the result of signature misuse and factional posturing, insisting that the caucus remains “strong” and “stable.”

This recent upheaval follows a series of internal reshuffles and factional battles. Makhubele was appointed chief whip at the end of May, replacing Mzwanele Manyi, who was removed amid accusations of undermining leadership and displaying arrogance. Meanwhile, tensions persist in the KwaZulu-Natal province over party control and financial management.

The MK Party’s internal discord is not new; previous attempts to remove Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu were thwarted by Zuma, underscoring the entrenched factionalism and competing power centers within the party.