The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party is currently embroiled in internal conflict after several Members of Parliament (MPs) called for the removal of Colleen Makhubele as Chief Whip. The accusations against her are serious, with dissenting MPs accusing her of autocratic leadership, poor decision-making, and betraying the party’s core values, especially concerning her stance on Israel.
Growing Tensions within the MK Party
Since Makhubele’s appointment as Chief Whip in late May 2025, her leadership has been under scrutiny. A letter addressed to MK Party President Jacob Zuma has emerged, expressing concerns over Makhubele’s leadership style, which the MPs claim has alienated party members. These MPs argue that her decisions are often unilateral, bypassing consultation with other members of the caucus.
One of the primary grievances is her support for Israel, which many MPs feel is in direct contradiction to the party’s values. The MK Party, historically aligned with anti-imperialist stances, has been an advocate for the Palestinian cause, and Makhubele’s position on Israel has caused significant division. The letter accusing her of this betrayal of party ideology highlights the deepening rift in the MK Party, as tensions grow over her leadership approach.
Allegations of Poor Leadership and Autocratic Decision-Making
The MPs who have called for Makhubele’s removal are not just dissatisfied with her political stances but also with her style of governance. The letter to Jacob Zuma criticizes her as a “political novice” who lacks the experience to effectively lead the party. Since taking over from Mzwanele Manyi, Makhubele’s leadership has reportedly failed to unite the party, with her decision-making often seen as top-down and lacking consultation.
These internal divisions have been exacerbated by the broader instability within the party, which has seen significant leadership changes in recent months. Earlier this year, the MK Party removed its former secretary-general, Floyd Shivambu, following allegations of misconduct. The party’s ongoing leadership struggles and internal conflicts have raised concerns about its future, with several MPs now questioning whether Makhubele is fit to lead the party in its current state.
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A Divided MK Party: Internal Disputes Intensify
While the party leadership has downplayed the crisis, claiming the caucus remains united, the leaked letter and public calls for Makhubele’s removal signal significant divisions within the MK Party. Nhlamulo Ndhlela, the party spokesperson, addressed the media, asserting that he had not seen the letter and that he first learned about it via social media. He also claimed that there were attempts to misuse the signature of Dr. John Hlophe, the party’s deputy president, on the letter, further muddying the waters of the internal conflict.
Despite these tensions, Ndhlela remains confident in the party’s strength, emphasizing that MK Party is still a rapidly growing political force in South Africa. He also pointed out that internal changes are part of the natural evolution of a political party and that criticism is often an opportunity to grow stronger.
“Changes are inevitable, and they offer a chance to grow. We are a fast-growing political party, and we take criticism as an opportunity to strengthen the party and address the issues facing the country,” said Ndhlela.
Is Makhubele’s Stance on Israel a Dealbreaker?
Makhubele’s stance on Israel continues to be one of the most contentious issues. The MK Party has traditionally aligned itself with the Palestinian cause, advocating for anti-imperialist policies. Her support for Israel has led some MPs to accuse her of betraying the party’s foundational values. Ndhlela, however, responded by downplaying the controversy, stating that the party’s position remains firmly in support of “Free Palestine” and that he was unsure where the claims regarding Makhubele’s support for Israel had originated.
Despite the internal unrest, Ndhlela insists that the MK Party remains united and committed to its mission. He acknowledged the party’s ongoing internal discussions, including regarding the role of former secretary-general Floyd Shivambu, but reiterated that the party remains focused on growing and addressing South Africa’s pressing issues.
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What Does the Future Hold for the MK Party?
The MK Party is currently facing a crossroads. The calls for Colleen Makhubele’s removal highlight the deep divisions within the party, driven by concerns over her leadership style and controversial political positions, particularly on Israel. As the MK Party navigates these turbulent waters, it remains to be seen whether it can resolve these internal conflicts and emerge stronger or if these tensions will undermine its stability in the long term.
With ongoing internal disputes and leadership challenges, the MK Party must now decide whether to support Makhubele or move towards a new leadership structure that can restore unity and align more closely with the party’s foundational values. Either way, the political turmoil is unlikely to dissipate any time soon.
