MK PARTY IN TURMOIL: COLLEEN MAKHUBELE RESIGNS AMID LEADERSHIP CRISIS AND RUSSIAN RECRUITMENT SCANDAL

Colleen Makhubele served uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party with divorse papers.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

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The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party is reeling from a double blow, with prominent member Colleen Makhubele's resignation as an MP and allegations of Russian recruitment scandal rocking the party.

Makhubele, who quit the party citing irreconcilable differences with the leadership, was embroiled in a rift with party leader Jacob Zuma's daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, and spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela.

The scandal has sparked outrage, with allegations that Zuma-Sambudla recruited around 20 South African men to fight for Russia in Ukraine, promising "personal development" and citizenship.

Two South African men have reportedly died, and 17 are still in Russia, with 15 having returned home thanks to President Cyril Ramaphosa's intervention.

Makhubele's resignation letter to Zuma expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve but hinted at efforts to create divisions within the party. Her exit adds to concerns about the MK party's stability and ability to effectively oppose the government.

The DA has laid criminal charges against Zuma-Sambudla, citing evidence of her involvement in luring the men to Russia. Zuma-Sambudla denies the allegations, claiming she's a victim of fraud by intermediaries.