Political turmoil in MK Party as MPs demand Colleen Makhubele’s removal

Internal divisions are brewing within the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party caucus in Parliament, as several Members of Parliament (MPs) have called for the immediate removal of newly appointed chief whip Colleen Makhubele.

Makhubele, who took office at the end of May, is accused by some MPs of making unilateral and undemocratic decisions, betraying party ideology - particularly in relation to her stance on Israel - and demonstrating poor leadership. 

In a letter addressed to party president Jacob Zuma, the dissenting MPs argue that her leadership threatens party unity and describe her as a “political novice and newcomer.”

The letter also states that since taking over from former chief whip Mzwanele Manyi, Makhubele’s conduct has alienated members of the caucus.

Makhubele, the former speaker of the City of Johannesburg, joined the MK Party in August 2024 after stints in the Congress of the People (COPE) and the short-lived South African Rainbow Alliance (SARA), which she founded.

IOL News previously reported that MK Party's deputy chief whip, Muzi Ntshingila, confirmed Makhubele’s appointment and expressed support from some quarters of the caucus. 

The announcement, which first circulated in internal party WhatsApp groups, was later confirmed by Ntshingila to IOL.

“Please be informed that Hon. Mzwanele Manyi has been relieved of his duties as chief whip with immediate effect. We thank him for his service and dedication to the MK Party and wish him the very best in his future endeavors,” read the message.

“We are pleased to announce that Hon. Colleen Makhubele has been appointed as the new chief whip of the MK Party. We are confident that she will lead with strength and vision as we continue to advance our collective mission,” it continued.

Manyi, who joined the MK Party in August 2024 after defecting from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), faced criticism from some senior party officials, who accused him of arrogance and failing to represent the caucus effectively.

“His arrogance finally caused him to fall on his sword. He fails to listen and protect his caucus and wants to shine in the media alone and not give anyone a chance,” one senior party official told IOL.

Makhubele’s appointment marks another leadership shake-up in the MK Party, which has been plagued by internal divisions. 

Just weeks ago, the party removed its former secretary-general, Floyd Shivambu, after a controversial and turbulent tenure.

Shivambu, who also defected from the EFF, was accused of misconduct, including an unauthorised trip to Malawi to meet fugitive pastor Shepherd Bushiri. 

Although initially expected to represent the party in Parliament, his name was omitted from the final list of sworn-in MPs.

Some members said Shivambu’s rapid rise - from national organiser to secretary-general - was met with resistance. 

Despite his close ties to Zuma, his leadership was dogged by infighting, which ultimately led to his removal. Shivambu has since announced plans to start his own political party.

IOL News has reached for comment.

[email protected]

IOL Politics