The MK Party has suspend its Deputy, Dr John Hlophe. Image credit: X @Newsroom405
(The Post News) – The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) has suspended its Deputy President and Parliamentary Leader, Dr John Hlophe, with immediate effect, following an internal disciplinary process.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, November 5, after party leader Jacob Zuma convened a meeting with senior officials upon his return from Burkina Faso.
According to the party’s official statement, the suspension is a precautionary measure pending a full investigation into Hlophe’s recent actions and conduct within the party.
The decision follows Hlophe’s controversial move to remove Chief Whip Colleen Makhubele and replace her with Des Van Rooyen, a former Cabinet Minister.
The party’s national leadership said the reshuffle was executed without proper consultation or collective agreement, in violation of internal protocols.
Party Nullifies Leadership Changes
As a result, the MK Party has nullified Hlophe’s decision and reinstated Makhubele as Chief Whip.
In the statement, the party said the suspension reflects its commitment to upholding discipline, collective leadership, and accountability. It assured members and the public that the organisation remains stable, united, and focused on fulfilling its mandate in Parliament and across the country.
Meanwhile, political observers have noted that the move highlights ongoing power struggles and internal tensions within the MK Party, which has been striving to consolidate its leadership structure since its strong showing in the 2024 national elections.
Analysts suggest that Zuma’s intervention aims to reassert central authority and prevent further divisions as the party positions itself as a major force in opposition politics.
Dr Hlophe has not yet issued a formal response to his suspension, and the MK Party has indicated that further details will be released once the internal investigation is complete.
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