The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has found itself embroiled in internal conflict following controversial social media posts by Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of MK President Jacob Zuma.
The posts, which targeted MK Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu, have sparked a stern response from the party leadership, with former South African President Zuma demanding an immediate public apology from her or face severe consequences.
The Controversial X Posts
On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the MK Party issued a media statement addressing the recent X (formerly Twitter) posts by Zuma-Sambudla, who currently serves as a Member of the National Assembly of South Africa. The posts, described as “insulting” towards Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu, were deemed a direct violation of the party’s Disciplinary Code of Conduct.
The statement emphasised that such actions are “unacceptable, divisive, denigrating, and offensive,” undermining the principles of unity, respect, and discipline that the party stands for. In her posts, Zuma-Sambudla referred to Shivambu as “the worst thing that has happened to the party,” followed by a series of scathing comments.
These remarks have not only strained internal relations but also raised questions about the party’s cohesion and leadership dynamics.
President Zuma’s Directives
In response to the controversy, President Jacob Zuma issued a clear directive:
1. Commander Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla must issue an unconditional public apology to the Secretary-General, the President, members, supporters of MK Party, and all the people of South Africa.
2. She must also extend formal apologies to all structures she serves in or leads, including the Southern Caucus of the Pan-African Parliament.
The apologies must be made immediately. Failure to comply will result in “immediate consequences,” including the termination of her membership in the MK Party and her recall from all party responsibilities.
Internal Disciplinary Process
Following the apology, an internal disciplinary process will be initiated in accordance with the MK Party Constitution, Code of Conduct, and relevant prescripts. The party reiterated that no member, regardless of position, is above its constitution.
Broader Implications
This incident comes amid broader internal tensions within the MK Party. A letter from Mxolisi Mthethwa, an eMalahleni zone coordinator, dated February 8, 2025, called for Shivambu’s removal, citing his “performance and behaviour.” The letter accused Shivambu of making unilateral decisions, failing to communicate effectively, and mismanaging constituency offices.
However, Magasela Mzobe, MK Head of Presidency, defended Shivambu, stating that all his actions are sanctioned by President Zuma and the collective leadership.
Mzobe dismissed the criticism as coming from “unhappy people within the organisation” and emphasised that the party remains united.
A Test of Unity
The MK Party, formed just before the 2024 national and provincial elections, is still navigating its internal structures and leadership dynamics. The current controversy highlights the challenges of maintaining discipline and unity within a young political movement.
As the party prepares to address these issues, all eyes are on Zuma-Sambudla’s next steps. Will she comply with the directive and apologize, or will her defiance lead to further repercussions?
