Inside Zuma's ruthless strategy behind MK Party bloodbath

THE Umkhonto Wesizwe Party (MK Party) has seen rapid leadership changes since its formation two and a half years ago, with key positions frequently reshuffled.

- HOPE NTANZI

THE MK Party has seen rapid changes in leadership since its formation, with top positions frequently reshuffled under the influence of founder Jacob Zuma.

(IOL Graphic / Lee Rondganger)

Despite this instability, analysts say the party's founder, former president Jacob Zuma, maintains strong support, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, keeping its electoral prospects in the region largely intact.

Since its launch, the party has repeatedly reshuffled top officials, including the secretary-general, deputy secretary-general, treasurer-general, and the chief whip.

Around 18 Members of Parliament (MPs) have reportedly been removed, with some taking their cases to court.

These moves have sparked public concern about the party's stability, but analysts say insiders remain largely unfazed.

IOL previously reported that MP Sibonelo Nomvalo was appointed Secretary-General, replacing Dr Bongani Mncwango. Nomvalo becomes the party's eighth Secretary-General in less than two years, highlighting the high turnover in the role.

MK Party chairperson Nathi Nhleko announced the changes at a media briefing in Umhlanga, Durban on Thursday, explaining that the reshuffles followed a meeting of the party's National Officials to reconfigure operational and leadership functions.