MK Founder’s Plea to Remove Zuma from Candidate List

Picture courtesy: (iol) Images Jabulani and Zuma A moment of reflection amidst political upheaval.

(The Post News) – Jabulani Khumalo, the founder of the MK party, has formally requested the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) to remove Jacob Zuma as the face of the party. This unprecedented step comes amid a flurry of media statements and internal party disputes that have brought the MK party into the national spotlight. Khumalo, who established the MK Party in 2023, has accused the former president of hijacking the party’s leadership, claiming that he occupies his positions through “fraudulent and illegal manoeuvres.”

In a letter addressed to the IEC, Khumalo stated, “I registered it with the IEC on 7 September 2023.” Khumalo shared that before the registration, he consulted for political advice and guidance from former president Jacob Zuma. “At all times it was always understood that Zuma is not a member of MKP but would assist it in the campaign,” he stated. The dispute escalated when Khumalo was informed on April 23, 2024, that he had been ousted as president of the party, with Zuma announced as his successor.

Khumalo’s letter to the IEC further clarifies, “I was told Zuma would become the president. However, at no point did I confirm he would be the president of the party.” In response to Khumalo’s letter, Nkateko Mkhabela, spokesperson for the MK Party Youth League, released a media statement strongly opposing Khumalo’s actions. Mkhabela’s statement reads, “We outrightly reject Mr. Jabulani Khumalo and any affiliations associated with him and vehemently refuse and reject to be led by a fly-by-night individual,” expressing outright rejection of Khumalo’s actions and reaffirming their support for Zuma. The IEC’s response to this internal strife was firm and clear.

“The commission does not involve itself in the internal affairs of political parties,” the IEC clarified, maintaining its neutral stance. However, it confirmed receiving Khumalo’s letter and noted that any action would be based on instructions from the registered leader of the party. According to the IEC, records indicate that Zuma has been the registered leader of the MK Party since April 10th, 2024.

Political analyst Levy Ndou weighed in on the situation, pointing out the internal squabbles within the MKP as indicative of serious organizational challenges. The discord suggests a struggle for power and a lack of unity, which could undermine the party’s effectiveness and credibility. Khumalo’s clash with Zuma is not just a battle for leadership but also a reflection of the deep-seated divisions within parties, “Because this is a new party,” a lot of people wish to see themselves possessing high positions in the party,” Ndou explained.

As the MK party gears up for the national elections, the spotlight remains on the party’s internal dynamics and its ability to navigate the turbulent waters of South African politics. The IEC’s decision, while not intervening in the dispute, has set a precedent for the handling of similar cases in the future.