MK Party Shakes Up Leadership: Deputy President John Hlophe Suspended

MK Party Deputy President and parliamentary leader, John Hlophe.

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

In a dramatic turn of events, the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Party has suspended its Deputy President and parliamentary leader, John Hlophe, just two weeks after appointing Tony Yengeni as the party's second deputy president. The decision was announced on Wednesday night by the party's head of presidency, Magasela Mzobe.

The suspension of Hlophe is the latest development in the party's internal power struggle. According to the party's statement, Hlophe made key decisions without consulting MK Party leader Jacob Zuma, who was away in Burkina Faso at the time. Specifically, Hlophe relieved Colleen Makhubele of her duties as chief whip and replaced her with Des van Rooyen, a decision that has now been nullified.

Mzobe emphasized the importance of collective leadership within the party, stating that the suspension was intended to reinforce discipline and accountability. "This decision is meant to affirm and send a strong message about the principle of collective leadership across all structures within the MK Party," Mzobe said.

Despite the internal conflicts, the MK Party leadership has assured supporters that the organization remains stable and committed to its goals. "The MK Party wishes to assure all its members, supporters, and the broader South African public that the organisation remains stable," Mzobe said ¹ ².

The suspension of Hlophe marks another significant development in the MK Party's leadership struggles, which have been plagued by internal disputes and power struggles since its formation.