Internal disputes, gun threats, and leadership tensions threaten MK Party’s preparations for 2026 elections
Former South African President Jacob Zuma’s MK party is facing a severe internal crisis as allegations of gun threats and leadership conflicts surface. A leaked voice note from a party meeting reveals escalating tensions, including a rumoured fallout between Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, and the party’s secretary-general, Floyd Shivambu.
Internal Fights Undermine Party Goals
The leaked voice note, obtained by City Press, features Zuma chastising members for their infighting. He warned that these internal conflicts could derail the party’s ambitions to win the 2026 local government elections.
“We are supposed to be doing things right, winning elections and taking over the country’s governance, but today we are fighting among ourselves,” Zuma allegedly said.
He expressed concern about reports of members threatening each other with firearms and disputes over leadership positions, ranging from the women’s league to the youth league.
Zuma-Sambudla vs. Shivambu: A Leadership Rift
Rumours suggest that Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla is attempting to replace Shivambu with her twin brother, Duduzane Zuma. Shivambu, who defected from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to the MK party, has risen swiftly through the ranks and remains a central figure in the party.
Several other prominent EFF figures, including Busisiwe Mkhwebane and Dali Mpofu, have also joined the MK party, increasing its political clout.
Leadership Reassures Members
Magasela Mzobe, head of the MK presidency, dismissed the rumours of Shivambu’s removal, affirming his and Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla’s importance to the party’s leadership.
“Comrade Floyd, the SG of MK Party, is not going anywhere. He remains a trusted SG by President Zuma and the organisation,” Mzobe stated on X (formerly Twitter).
Mzobe urged members to remain focused and ignore social media speculation, emphasizing the need for unity as the party prepares for upcoming elections.
Suspensions and Protests in KZN
The turmoil in the MK party extends beyond leadership disputes. On New Year’s Day, Zuma suspended the memberships of Kwazi Mbanjwa, Thobani Zuma, and Sifiso Zuma for alleged irregularities and constitutional violations. The suspensions sparked protests at Zuma’s Nkandla homestead.
Mbanjwa, a trusted ally of Zuma during his presidency, was accused by Shivambu of refusing to relinquish control of the party’s bank accounts. The suspended members face an internal disciplinary process overseen by the National Prosecutor.
MK Party’s Political Impact
Despite the turmoil, the MK party has gained significant traction, becoming the third-largest party in South Africa and attracting high-profile politicians. However, internal divisions could hinder its growth and electoral prospects in 2026.
For now, party leaders are striving to restore order and focus on building a unified front for the upcoming elections.
Also read: Mbuyiseni Ndlozi Resigns as EFF MP After Nearly a Decade in Parliament
