Analysts say MK Party’s instability is a symptom of Zuma’s leadership

Political commentator, Goodenough Mashego, says the uMkhonto weSizwe Party’s (MKP) instability stems from its undemocratic leadership structure, with key figures appointed rather than elected.

Mashego argues that this approach leaves the party undemocratic and heavily reliant on former President Jacob Zuma’s personal authority.

His comments follow mounting tensions within the party after Deputy President Dr. John Hlophe was suspended for removing Colleen Makhubele as Parliamentary Chief Whip and replacing her with Des van Rooyen.

Mashego cautions that without internal democracy and proper organisational structures, the MK Party is unlikely to endure beyond Zuma’s leadership.

Mashego also weighed in on the controversy surrounding van Rooyen, describing his appointment and swift removal as a “humiliation.”

The incident has reminded South Africans of December 2015, when then-President Jacob Zuma appointed Van Rooyen as Finance Minister for just four days before replacing him amid national backlash.

Mashego says Van Rooyen’s experience within the MK Party mirrors that episode, arguing that leadership positions in the party are determined solely by Zuma’s discretion.

He adds that this recurring pattern of abrupt appointments and dismissals highlights a deeper issue within the MK Party — where leaders serve at the will of the founder rather than through democratic processes — fostering instability and uncertainty in the organisation’s ranks.

Political analyst, Leo Maphosa, also weighed in, noting that the MK party has long been plagued by frequent reshufflings and leadership removals, which undermine the party’s stability and focus.

He adds that much of the party’s energy goes into managing internal crises instead of building organisational structures or preparing effectively for future elections.

“In truth, the MK party has probably recorded the highest turnover in leadership and internal adjustments since its formation, a pattern that inevitably undermines stability and coherence.

“The energy they bring that are to be directed towards building structures, consolidating policy positions, and preparing for the local government elections, is instead being spent on managing internal crises that seem not to end,” Maphosa added.