MK Party Chief Whip describes new role as 'very stormy time'

THE uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has confirmed that Colleen Makhubele remains in her position as Chief Whip, despite purported suggestions of a petition from other party members calling for her removal.

- MANDILAKHE TSHWETE

At a press briefing held in Parliament yesterday, MKP parliamentary leader Dr John Hlophe said a claim that a letter had been sent to party president Jacob Zuma calling for him to oust Makhubele was false.

"There is no letter, there is no petition, in terms of which MPs are calling for the head of the Chief Whip. This is a figment of someone' imagination," said Hlophe.

"Quite frankly, I would have been the first person to receive that petition. I asked President Zuma as late as last night. There is no such letter. Comrade Colleen Makhubele remains the Chief Whip. She is very good. She is very effective."

The party said recent internal changes, including the removal of spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela from its whippery, were strategic and administrative, not evidence of factionalism.

Hlophe explained that the MKP is reorienting itself towards legislative impact and preparing constitutional amendments, including a proposed revision of Section 235 of the Constitution, which relates to self-determination.

"We don't believe South Africa belongs to just anyone who lives here," Hlophe said.