The internal strife within the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has intensified following scathing remarks from Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of party leader Jacob Zuma, directed at the party's Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu. Amid growing discontent within certain factions of the party, Zuma-Sambudla’s comments about Shivambu, labeling him the "worst thing to happen to the MK Party," have led to calls for disciplinary action against her.
Jacob Zuma's administration appears resolute amid this turmoil, as the party's leadership reinforces its support for Shivambu. Magasela Mzobe, head of the presidency within the MK Party, addressed the controversy, noting, “The president and the collective leadership of the MK party have full confidence in the secretary general.” He underscored the party's unity and commitment to its collective decision-making, indicating no intention to remove Shivambu from his position.
The backdrop of this discord includes allegations against Shivambu concerning his leadership style, as articulated in a letter from Mxolisi Mthethwa — the eMalahleni zone coordinator. Dated February 8, 2025, the correspondence accused Shivambu of poor performance and lack of consultation, creating confusion within the ranks. Mthethwa labeled Shivambu's decisions as “unwise choices” and urged for disciplinary measures up to his dismissal if shortcomings were substantiated.
Zuma-Sambudla’s outburst escalated tensions, as she publicly condemned Shivambu after the letter's circulation. On social media platform X, she declared, "Floyd, I’m not scared of you! Tell your minions to f**k off ... Floyd is useless!" Such comments, deemed unacceptable by the party, prompted MK leadership to demand she apologize. The party's official statement labeled her remarks as “divisive, denigratory, and offensive,” emphasizing their commitment to maintaining unity and respect.
Following the backlash, Duduzile was instructed to issue public apologies to Shivambu, the party president, and all members of the MK Party. Failure to comply could lead to her expulsion, as emphasized by party officials. A statement read, “Failure to comply with this directive will result in immediate consequences, including the termination of her membership and her recall from all party responsibilities.”
The MK Party's position stems from its desire to uphold principles of unity and discipline, particularly amid perceived internal threats. Mzobe reinforced this assertion, indicating discontent from certain factions is expected, particularly as the party prepares for upcoming national and provincial elections scheduled for May 2024.
Shivambu, who joined the MKP after leaving the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has had his tenure marred by controversy. His critics have pointed to alleged failures to pay constituency staff and mismanagement, which some believe reflects poorly on his leadership capabilities. The recent tumult within the MK Party seems to echo broader concerns about administrative accountability and effectiveness.
Reacting to Zuma-Sambudla's comments, party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela reiterated the need for cohesion within the party ranks. “These posts undermine the principles of unity, respect, and discipline,” he said, adding the party is prepared to take necessary actions against any member undermining its integrity.
The ripple effects of this conflict highlight the fragility of party unity as factions within the MK Party call for different directions. With the backdrop of Jacob Zuma's legacy and leadership, the expectations of cohesion rest heavily on Shivambu as he navigates the turbulence marked by family ties and political ambitions.
While the MK Party aims to maintain its foundational ethos amid these pressures, the question remains whether harmony can be restored without significant consequences. Duduzile's future within the party seems precarious at best, and her actions are being closely monitored by both her peers and party leadership. Her recent statements might reflect only the surface of broader dissatisfaction brewing within the party, making it imperative for MK to address these internal fractures decisively and thoughtfully.
All eyes will now be on Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla as she faces the ultimatum to publicly apologize and whether she will comply or stake her claim to defiance within the party structure.