'ATM won't merge with MK party'

The leader of the African Transformation Movement insists it will remain independent, despite its alliance with Jacob Zuma's party

- Lunga Mzangwe

The African Transformation Movement (ATM) will not dissolve or forfeit its independent political status despite a strengthening alliance with the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, said its leader, Vuyo Zungula.

"It was unanimously agreed that there would be no dissolution of any other party. A merger of the parties would mean the dissolution of both parties. In principle, it will depend on how elections are approached," said Zungula.

"No dissolution, deregistration both parties continue to exist, have their programmes and, wherever possible, we collaborate."

Earlier this month, the MK party announced in a joint statement with the ATM that the parties would work together in all by-elections before the 2026 local government elections and the 2029 general elections.

According to the statement, the modalities of the MK party and the ATM working together will be presented to the leadership and membership of both parties in the spirit of building unity among the “progressive forces” in South Africa.

"The MK party and the ATM principally agree that the struggle for total emancipation of the colonised and oppressed people of South Africa is incomplete and needs a unified response and common action," the parties said.

The ATM already has a working relationship with the MK party in parliament through the so-called progressive caucus.